STORY: A massive fire broke out near midday on Saturday (June 6) in the artisanal area of the fishing dock in Manta, Ecuador, affecting 35 vessels, according to the latest official report.

Authorities said 14 fishing boats and 21 smaller boats were damaged after flames spread through vessels anchored about 80 meters from shore. Access to the port area was restricted while emergency crews controlled the fire and assessed damage. The cause of the fire remained unknown.

Eyewitness video showed boats burning, thick black smoke rising over the port, people pulling a burning boat, and firefighters working to extinguish the blaze.

Reuters verified the location of the videos by the buildings, road layout and utility poles which matched archive and satellite imagery of the place. The date was verified by corroborating visuals and an official confirmation by Manta local government.

DESCRIPCIÓN DE IMÁGENES

SHOWS: MANTA, ECUADOR (JUNE 6, 2026) (Radio San Mateo - No Resales / No Archive / Must on-screen courtesy Radio San Mateo)

1. BOATS BURNING AND PLUMES OF SMOKE

2. VARIOUS OF BOATS BURNING

3. PEOPLE PULLING BURNING BOAT

4. PEOPLE WATCHING FIRE FROM THE BEACH

5. PEOPLE PULLING BURNING BOAT

6. FIREFIGHTERS EXTINGUISHING FIRE

7. BOATS BURNING AND PLUMES OF SMOKE