Mass shooting at Ecuador cockfighting arena leaves 12 dead

At least 12 people were killed and nine others were injured in a mass shooting at a cockfighting arena of Manabi province in Ecuador on Thursday night, Report informs via India Today.

According to local reports, the attack occurred at approximately 11:30 PM in Valencia, which is within El Carmen canton, a venue where people gather to watch rooster fights.

Witnesses reported that a group of masked men wearing military attire came in three vehicles and started shooting at people who were present at the event.

The attackers stole prize money of around $20,000 before escaping the scene.

The victims were taken to hospitals in the nearby city of Santo Domingo, where most of the fatalities were confirmed. Police suspect the attack is linked to organised crime gangs. An investigation is underway. Authorities have announced a reward for any information that leads to the identification of the attackers.

Investigation units are at the scene, working to gather information and identify the perpetrators, police added.