Drug gangsters held prison guards amid a wave of violence in Ecuador this week.

Footage shows masked cartel members holding officers at knifepoint as one guard was made to read out a statement.

Local media reported the gangs were threatening to 'massacre' their hostages if authorities intervene with their plans.

Ecuador is grappling with a flare-up of violence this week after Ecuadorian president Daniel Noboa, who was elected on his campaign promise to crack down on cocaine-smuggling gangs, declared a 60-day state of emergency.

The decree was announced following the escape of kingpin Adolfo Macias, leader of the Los Choneros cartel, from prison.

At least 10 people, including cops, have been killed, while more than 130 prison staff have been held hostage amid the chaos.

President Noboa told local reporters: 'We are fighting narco-terrorism. They disseminate images to frighten the public and to bring the president of the republic to his knees, and that is not going to happen.

'I sympathise with the families. We are in a state of war and we cannot give in.'