Rescued: British Consul Freed from Ecuadorian Gangsters
Colin Armstrong, a 78-year-old British businessman and former UK honorary consul, was reportedly kidnapped by an Ecuadorian drug cartel along with his Colombian partner, Katherine Paola Santos. Armstrong, who runs an agricultural supply company, may have crossed the gang by refusing to pay protection money. After several days, both Armstrong and Santos were freed, and nine arrests were made. Armstrong is known for his eccentricity and for creating the tourist attraction, The Forbidden Corner. The incident highlights the rising crime rate and influence of drug cartels in Ecuador.