Archive · 8 Jan 2026
Ecuador Protests Spain's Release of Alleged Gang Leader
Ecuador is upset because Spain let go of a man they think is a big-time criminal.
This man, called Commander Willy, is accused of doing bad things like attacking a TV station while it was broadcasting live.
Ecuador wanted him sent back to their country to face charges, but Spain said they needed guarantees that he would be safe there.
Ecuador says they sent all the needed papers, but Spain still let him go.
Now, Ecuador is trying to get him back.
Ecuador protests Spain's release of alleged gang leader William Joffre Alcivar Bautista (Commander Willy).
Alcivar was arrested in Spain in October 2024 on terrorism charges related to attacks in Ecuador.
Spain authorized his extradition in June 2024 but released him on December 29, 2024, due to lack of guarantees from Ecuador.
Ecuador's Interior Minister claims all necessary documentation was submitted for Alcivar's extradition.
Alcivar is accused of leading a live TV station raid in Guayaquil, Ecuador, in 2024.
- Who
- William Joffre Alcivar Bautista (Commander Willy) and his brother Alex
- What
- Release of alleged gang leader from Spanish custody
- When
- December 29, 2024 (release), October 2024 (arrest)
- Where
- Spain (release), Ecuador (extradition request)
- Why
- Spain released Alcivar due to Ecuador's failure to provide requested guarantees for his custody
- Name
- William Joffre Alcivar Bautista (Commander Willy)
- Alleged Group
- Los Tiguerones
- Charges
- Terrorism, car bombings, contract killings, extortion, live TV station raid
- Arrest Location
- Spain
- Arrest Date
- October 2024
- Extradition Status
- Authorized by Spain in June 2024, but released due to lack of guarantees
- TV Station Attack
- TC Television in Guayaquil, Ecuador
- Attack Date
- 2024