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Mysterious bomb-dropping drones sank their fishing boats, survivors say. Who was behind the attacks?
CNN • • nation
Key Points:
- Two Ecuadorian fishing boats, La Negra Francisca Duarte II and Don Maca, were reportedly attacked in March by small explosive-laden rotor drones operated by armed foreigners, causing severe injuries and sinking the vessels.
- The fishermen described being detained by armed men on a mysterious blue ship, who spoke English, wore US-flag patches, and later transferred them to Salvadoran Coast Guard custody before repatriation.
- The incidents have drawn US interest amid reports of a covert CIA program possibly involved, though US agencies have denied involvement and Ecuadorian authorities have remained largely silent.
- The fishermen maintain they are not involved in drug trafficking and have suffered physical, psychological, and financial harm, with their lawyer planning a US lawsuit once responsible parties are identified.
- A third Ecuadorian fishing boat, Fiorella, disappeared under suspicious circumstances earlier in January, heightening concerns over unexplained attacks in the region.
