Ecuador's TV Chaos, Ancient DNA Shocker, Amazon's Big Cut

Just reporting the facts.

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Centrist Chronicle
January 12, 2024

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In a recent surge of gang-related disturbances in Ecuador, a minimum of 12 individuals have lost their lives, and over 130 prison staff members have been taken captive. This outbreak of violence includes a temporary seizure of a broadcasting TV station, triggered by the prison break of a prominent gang figure over the weekend. Daniel Noboa, Ecuador's newly inaugurated president, has declared a 60-day state of emergency in light of these events.

The chaos erupted following the escape of 44-year-old José Adolfo Macías Villamar, known by his alias "Fito," from prison on Saturday. Fito, who was serving a 34-year sentence for homicide and drug trafficking offenses, is recognized as the head of Los Choneros, a notorious drug cartel. His escape has raised concerns, especially since Los Choneros have been implicated in the assassination of Fernando Villavicencio, a presidential candidate, last year.

Ecuador has witnessed a staggering 500% increase in homicides since 2016, a trend largely attributed to escalating gang conflicts. It's estimated that gangs control about a quarter of the nation's prisons. President Noboa, 35, has vowed to construct new maximum-security facilities specifically for gang leaders. Additionally, he is planning a referendum aimed at bolstering the country's defenses against organized crime.


An extensive study involving over 1,600 ancient genomes has uncovered the origins of various genetic traits present in today's European population. This research indicates that numerous characteristics, including an increased likelihood of developing multiple sclerosis, were introduced into Europe by migratory populations in three major waves, beginning approximately 45,000 years ago.

This groundbreaking research has been detailed in four interconnected studies published in the journal Nature.

The discoveries highlight that the variation in certain genetic traits across different regions can be attributed to the varying patterns of migration. This challenges the previously held belief that genetic variations primarily emerged as populations adapted to specific European environments.


Amazon is in the process of reducing its workforce, particularly in the Prime Video and MGM Studios sectors.

In a recent internal communication, Mike Hopkins, the executive responsible for these divisions, informed his team about the impending workforce reductions. This development was confirmed by the details of the memo, which CNBC had access to, and by an official statement from an Amazon representative.

The rationale behind these job reductions, as explained by Hopkins, is to align the company's investments with the strategy for achieving long-term business success.