Ecuador: The Narco Superhighway

Ecuador is one of the most environmentally diverse countries in South America, home to rainforests, the Andes Mountains and the Galapagos Islands. It was once considered one of the safest, most peaceful countries in the region with the lowest homicide rate. But that is quickly changing.

A rise in drug trafficking has led to a rise in power for the cartels in the region. Around 70 percent of the world's cocaine moves through Ecuador now, and that has plunged the country into a state of chaos and violence.

CNN's David Culver takes us inside Ecuador where he'll show you firsthand what the government forces are doing to try to contain the violence and speaks with Ecuadorians, including current gang members, about why so many civilians are getting caught up in this war, either by force or sometimes by choice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices