Ecuador at standstill after two weeks of protests over cost of living crisis

During demonstrations, started by an Indigenous federation, roads were blocked and vehicles torched, and police fired teargas

Ecuador has been brought to a near standstill after two weeks of tumultuous protests over a spike in fuel and food prices as global inflation inflames discontent over widening inequality across Latin America.

At least five people have died after demonstrators blocked roads, torched vehicles and hurled stones, while police responded with teargas during several days of clashes. Ecuador's health ministry has said two people died in ambulances delayed by road blockades. Twelve police officers are reported injured.