Graphic images and videos depicting executions and gang violence in Ecuador have been spreading on X. These materials are easily accessible and have been promoted by accounts with significant followings, two of which have verified status. The content includes disturbing scenes such as prisoners wielding machetes and prison guards being murdered.

Ecuador declared a state of emergency on Monday following a surge in violence, culminating in an assault by armed individuals who forcibly entered a television studio. The week has witnessed a death toll of at least 10, marked by persistent violence, large-scale prison riots, and the vanishing of incarcerated crime figure Adolfo Macias Villamar. President Daniel Noboa issued a state of emergency in a decree on January 9.

Why does it matter?

The spread of this violent content has raised concerns about X's content moderation policies, especially since Elon Musk's takeover. Significant changes have occurred to the platform's approach to content moderation, including a reduction in content moderation staff and an increased reliance on AI and community-driven mechanisms. Critics argue that these changes have not been sufficient to prevent the dissemination of harmful material.