Ecuador Approves Extradition of Los Choneros’ Second-in-Command
On April 22, 2023, Ecuador’s National Court of Justice (CNJ) took a significant step in its battle against organized crime by approving the extradition of Darío Javier Peñafiel Nieto, commonly known as “Topo.” As the second-in-command of Los Choneros, Ecuador’s oldest criminal organization, Topo is wanted in the United States for serious offenses, including drug trafficking and firearms possession.
Background of the Extradition
The approval for Topo’s extradition came after a thorough hearing, during which the National Court confirmed compliance with legal requirements and received diplomatic guarantees from the United States. The court emphasized its commitment to international cooperation in combating transnational crime, highlighting a growing collaboration between Ecuadorian authorities and international law enforcement agencies.
Allegations Against Darío Javier Peñafiel Nieto
Topo’s criminal activities extend far beyond mere drug offenses. He leads Los Fatales, a faction of Los Choneros with ties to the notorious Sinaloa Cartel from Mexico, which the U.S. government has labeled a terrorist organization. His association with José Adolfo Macías Villamar, also known as “Fito,” the primary leader of Los Choneros, underscores the depth of his criminal enterprise. Fito, who was extradited to the U.S. and is now awaiting trial, was an essential part of Topo’s rise in the criminal underworld.
Upon his arrest in September 2022, Topo faced multiple criminal charges, including arms trafficking. At that time, he was held at Cárcel del Encuentro, Ecuador’s high-security prison, designed to address the country’s escalating violence linked to organized crime.
Legal Challenges and Pending Cases
Although the CNJ has approved his extradition, Topo had previously refused to be sent to the U.S. His lawyer argued that he has unresolved legal issues in Ecuador, which should be addressed prior to any extradition process. These cases include existing warrants linked to serious crimes such as the murder of a police officer and previous charges of illicit association, kidnapping, and alimony evasion.
Rising Violence and the State of Emergency
Ecuador has been grappling with a severe escalation in violence attributed to rival criminal gangs like Los Choneros. Since a state of “internal armed conflict” was declared by President Daniel Noboa in 2024, the government’s strategy has focused on dismantling these gangs, which are increasingly categorized as terrorist organizations. The violence has reached alarming levels; official statistics reported over 9,200 homicides in 2025, marking the highest toll in the nation’s history.
Conclusion
The extradition of Darío Javier Peñafiel Nieto serves as a crucial development in Ecuador’s ongoing fight against organized crime. With Los Choneros deeply entrenched in the country’s drug trafficking and violent crimes, international cooperation remains vital. As Ecuador continues its struggle against increasing criminal activity, Topo’s case underscores the importance of stringent law enforcement measures and the commitment to uphold justice in the face of transnational crime.