A live television broadcast by the Ecuadorean station TC was abruptly and dramatically interrupted on Tuesday when a group of hooded and armed individuals stormed the set. The assailants, brandishing rifles and grenades, caused chaos and terror as they forced the terrified crew to the ground amidst a barrage of gunshots.

The harrowing incident unfolded against a backdrop of a series of explosions and the reported kidnapping of at least seven police officers. This alarming escalation of violence occurred just a day after President Daniel Noboa declared a state of emergency in response to the escape of Adolfo Macias, known as “Fito,” one of the country’s notorious drug gang bosses.

As gunshots rang out during the shocking intrusion into the live broadcast, desperate pleas of “Don’t shoot, please don’t shoot” filled the air. Rapid response units from the National Police in Quito and Guayaquil were immediately dispatched to the scene, already in coordination with authorities, according to a brief police statement.

President Noboa’s declaration of a state of emergency was prompted by Fito’s escape from prison, who was reported missing from his cell on Sunday. Ecuadorian prosecutors have since filed charges against two prison guards as part of their investigation into the alleged escape.

The current situation in Ecuador remains tense, with heightened security measures in place. The country is grappling with a complex web of criminal activities, and authorities are diligently working to bring those responsible for the recent events to justice.