Allowing the military to patrol the streets, and the imposition of harsher jail sentences. The country now has the highest Murder Rate in Latin America as the influence of powerful Drug Cartels has grown. Ione wells sent this report from the capital, quito. Ecuador� s capital, quito, is bursting with life. But among the songs and smiles, clues that this is now the continents most violent country. The bloodshed at this Youth Centre is just a sport. But on the streets, many young people are losing their lives at the hands of violent Drug Cartels. Carmens brother was killed by a Gang Member who wanted money when he wasjust 19. Translation the gang i threatened us at our house, throwing stones at us because the murder occurred next to my son. They said if the Gang Member goes to the prison, my son would be the next person to die. I think militarising the country is not the solution. Instead of investing that, they should invest in the youth