Concerns about public safety are growing in Cuenca following a wave of crime reports circulating on social media, even as authorities point to ongoing efforts to strengthen surveillance and prevention systems.
In recent weeks, residents have shared accounts of robberies, attempted vehicle thefts, and kidnappings, fueling a perception that insecurity may be increasing in parts of the city.
One of the most serious incidents reported involved the kidnapping of a real estate agent, her son, and an employee in the El Valle parish. The suspects allegedly lured the victims under the pretense of a property visit before abducting them and demanding money. The victims were later released safely, and authorities reported that a suspect linked to the case is now facing prosecution.
Other incidents shared online describe attempted robberies using similar tactics. In one case, a driver reported that individuals threw a rock at her vehicle along Manuel J. Calle Avenue and Paucarbamba, shattering a window while a motorcycle blocked her path. The driver managed to escape without stopping.
A separate incident near the 27 de Febrero market followed a similar pattern, with suspects attempting to trick a driver into exiting her vehicle after claiming it had been damaged. The attempt was abandoned when other people approached the scene.
While these cases have heightened concern among residents, officials emphasize that steps are underway to improve security infrastructure across the city.
The Municipal Citizen Security Council said a major expansion of surveillance systems is in progress. Authorities plan to begin activating 401 new video surveillance cameras starting in mid-April, focusing on areas considered higher risk. Additional projects include the installation of license plate recognition cameras at city entry and exit points, along with hundreds more cameras to cover central areas and replace outdated equipment.
In total, the city aims to reach approximately 1,000 operational cameras by the end of the year, supported by an investment of about $4.1 million. The system will be coordinated with Ecuador’s ECU 911 emergency response network to improve real-time monitoring and response.
Community alarm systems are also being expanded, with hundreds of devices planned for neighborhoods and public spaces, including university areas.
Authorities have not confirmed a citywide spike in crime but acknowledge the importance of prevention and rapid response as public concern grows.
For many residents, the immediate issue is not only the number of incidents, but the visibility of them. As more cases are shared online, the perception of insecurity can spread quickly, making the effectiveness of these new security measures a key factor to watch in the coming months.