DID Press: Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa survived an attack on Wednesday when his vehicle was surrounded by about 500 protesters in Cañar province, authorities said.
Protesters reportedly threw stones at the vehicle, which also showed signs of possible bullet damage. Following an official investigation, Environment and Energy Minister Inés Manzano said five individuals were arrested in connection with the incident.
The presidential office said that the detainees will face charges of terrorism and attempted assassination.
Reuters could not independently confirm whether gunfire struck the president’s vehicle. The protests erupted after the government removed fuel subsidies.
Noboa later addressed a student event in Cuenca, about 77 kilometers south of the attack site, saying his administration will not tolerate such actions.