Twin blasts outside Ecuador government offices injure one in Quito

Authorities in Ecuador are investigating two suspected bomb attacks after explosions struck outside the agriculture ministry and the mining regulatory agency in Quito early on Monday, injuring a security guard and damaging nearby property amid growing organised crime violence.

Quito police chief Patricio Armendariz said two people arrived in a vehicle before placing two explosive devices outside the government buildings.

The explosions occurred at around 3:00 am (0800 GMT) in an area surrounded by homes and a petrol station.

The mining regulatory agency said a member of its security team was injured in the attack but was out of danger.

Minister condemns attack

Energy Minister Juan Carlos Blum condemned the incident, blaming "those who seek to halt the state's fight against the illegal extraction of minerals".

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The explosions came only days after bomb disposal experts deactivated an explosive device near a courthouse in Quito.

Grenade destroyed near bus terminal

Later on Monday, police carried out a controlled detonation of a grenade discovered near a bus terminal in northern Quito and arrested two men who were carrying the explosive.

Authorities did not say whether the grenade incident was linked to the explosions outside the government buildings.

Violence continues to grip Ecuador

On Thursday, a bomb squad deactivated a similar explosive device that had been placed near a courthouse.

Organised crime groups fighting both the state and rival gangs have made Ecuador one of the most violent countries in Latin America.