The Police
All going well, the only contact you're likely to have with the police ( policia ) are at road checkpoints at various places around the country, mentioned in the guide text. Often you will be waved through, but sometimes you'll be asked to register. You should carry your passport , or a photocopy of the important pages, at all times. In the Oriente and some border areas, only the original will do. In some cases you may also have your bags searched. Watch as they search, and even better get a witness to watch with you: it's very rare, but corrupt officials have planted drugs in bags with the end of extracting a large "fine" from the terrified tourist. The possession of drugs , regardless of whether it's for personal use or not, is a very serious offence in Ecuador, one that can end in fifteen years in jail. People who've been charged may have to contend with the country's dilapidated and overcrowded prisons for more than a year before they're even brought to trial. Don't take any chances with drugs or drug dealers - set-ups have happened - as it's simply not worth the consequences. If offered drugs in the street, walk quickly away. You will need to go to the police as soon as possible if you are robbed , in order to make a report ( denuncia ). The report should include an itemized list of everything that was taken and is a vital document if you want to claim on your insurance. Beyond this, there's not a lot they can do, but they may go back to the scene of the crime with you for a look around - a gesture of sympathy more than anything else.
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