A Cuban national is currently facing administrative scrutiny in Ecuador after authorities discovered 1,230 undeclared colostomy bags in his luggage at Guayaquil's José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport. This development was announced on Tuesday by the Ecuadorian National Customs Service (SENAE).
The discovery was made during routine inspections in the international arrivals area, where customs officers found the medical supplies concealed in the traveler's baggage, who had arrived from Cuba.
"Our team at the international arrivals section of Guayaquil airport identified and seized 1,230 colostomy bags originating from Cuba. These items were not declared and were being transported as part of a Cuban citizen's luggage," stated a SENAE communiqué.
Ecuadorian officials have initiated an administrative process to ascertain whether there was a breach of current customs regulations.
Colostomy bags are essential medical devices for patients who have undergone colon surgeries and require an external system to collect bodily waste. In Ecuador, each bag is priced between four and seven dollars, placing the estimated value of the shipment between $4,920 and $8,610.
Beyond the potential customs violation, the case is notable due to the nature of the seized goods. Unlike other seizures involving commercial products or luxury items, this involves medical supplies that have been in short supply in Cuba for years, a situation highlighted by patients and their families.
The scarcity of colostomy bags on the island has forced many, including children, the elderly, and cancer patients, to resort to makeshift solutions using plastic bags, bottles, and other containers due to the lack of appropriate devices.
This critical shortage prompted Cuban authorities to maintain duty exemptions for importing these products in accompanied luggage for several years, aiming to ease their entry into the country.
Recent operations have also exposed the existence of an informal market for medical supplies. In February 2025, Cuban authorities reported the seizure of a clandestine warehouse in Havana stocked with medications, gloves, catheters, sutures, IV fluids, and colostomy bags, presumably intended for illegal sale.
The incident in Guayaquil is part of a series of control actions carried out by SENAE in 2026. Among the recent seizures are 60 firearm magazines, iPhones valued at approximately $35,000, and nearly 350,000 contraband cigarettes.
Ecuadorian law mandates travelers to declare any goods subject to taxation and undergo the necessary inspections before entering the country.
Following the procedure, SENAE reiterated its call for passengers to adhere to customs regulations.
"We remind travelers to review the regulations regarding personal effects and comply with the established provisions to avoid complications during their entry into the country," the agency emphasized.
Understanding Customs Regulations in Ecuador
What are colostomy bags used for?
Colostomy bags are medical devices used by patients who have undergone surgeries on their colon, helping them collect bodily waste externally.
Why is there a shortage of colostomy bags in Cuba?
The lack of colostomy bags in Cuba has been a long-standing issue, with patients often resorting to improvised solutions due to limited access to these essential medical supplies.
What are the consequences of not declaring goods at Ecuadorian customs?
Failing to declare goods subject to taxes can lead to administrative investigations and potential legal consequences as per Ecuadorian customs regulations.