Expat Community > Ecuador

nanberger
Joined 2009
Posts: 23

About gated communities

13 years ago

We live in an upscale, gated community in Cumbaya, 20 minutes from the airport in Quito, and across the street from the University of San Francisco Quito.

The neighborhood recently experienced an armed robbery where the thieves in a truck were admitted by the "guards" at the gate. I use quote marks because to call our security forces 'guards' is to give them a reference of abilities they do not deserve.

Turns out the president of the community association had a business on the side: supplying guards to our- and nearby communities.

He replaced all the 'guards' with new ones, but they are no more effective than those whose places they took.

Although ee pay a lot for this service, only a fraction of it goes to pay the 'guards'. The service we receive reflects this apparent corruption. We can hardly expect more from underpaid and under-trained protectors.

Someone made the point earlier that many of us are lulled into a false sense of security within our gates. Other than voicing concern, how can we hold responsible those who run such businesses? What do readers suggest may be done to create more trust in our 'guards' and integrity in those who hire them?

Nancy B.

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SJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More

SJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More

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Expat Community > Ecuador

About gated communities

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