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ecuadorian Police Arrest Two Suspects in Mario Pineida Killing
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The arrests follow the Wednesday shooting death of the Barcelona de Guayaquil defender, his partner, and the wounding of his mother, highlighting escalating violence in Ecuador.
What Happened?
Ecuadorian police arrested two suspects,identified as Cristian P.G. and Jimnery P.B., in connection with the murder of soccer player Mario Pineida. The arrests were made after a court appearance on Friday,December 19,2025,where a judge ordered their “preventive arrests” due to sufficient evidence and flight risk,according to Ecuador’s prosecutor’s office on X (formerly Twitter).
Pineida, 33, a defender for Barcelona de Guayaquil and a former member of the Ecuadorian national team, was shot and killed on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, in Guayaquil. His partner was also killed in the attack, and his mother was wounded.
The Rising Violence in Ecuador
Pineida’s murder is part of a disturbing trend of increasing violence in Ecuador, fueled by drug trafficking and gang activity. The country has seen a surge in homicides in recent years, with 2023 recording a historic high. According to Reuters, ecuador declared a state of emergency in January 2024 in response to escalating violence linked to prison gangs.
The violence has extended beyond organized crime, impacting everyday citizens and creating a climate of fear. The attack on Pineida, a well-known public figure, underscores the pervasive nature of the problem. The Ecuadorian government has implemented various security measures, including increased police presence and stricter law enforcement, but the situation remains volatile.
Mario Pineida’s Career
Mario pineida was a prominent figure in Ecuadorian soccer. he began his professional career with Emelec in 2008 and later played for several other clubs, including Liga de Quito and Deportivo Cuenca. He joined Barcelona de Guayaquil in 2018 and became a key player for the team. Pineida also represented Ecuador internationally, earning 10 caps for the national team between 2012 and 2016, according to Transfermarkt.
| Club | Years |
|---|---|
| Emelec | 2008-2011 |
| Liga de Quito | 2011-2013 |
| deportivo Cuenca | 2013-2015 |
| Barcelona de Guayaquil | 2018-2025 |
Reactions and Mourning
Pineida’s
