Ecuador’s prison riot: Drug cartels, overcrowded cells and a bloodbath

The senior government official who asked to remain anonymous said corruption is rampant among prison staff. Family members of inmates, many of whom are also linked to the drug trade, often smuggle in weapons, cellphones, SIM cards and cash, in exchange for a hefty profit. An item worth $500 outside the prison is worth up to $4,000 inside, the official said.