Ecuador army frees President Correa from hospital siege

Under cover of darkness Mr Correa was reportedly smuggled out of the hospital in a wheelchair as a gun battle between troops and police raged.

Speaking to his supporters outside the presidential palace, Mr Correa said he hoped the events of the day would serve “as an example to those who want to bring a change and stop the citizens’ revolution without going through the polls”.

“I give so much thanks to those heroes who accompanied me through this hard journey,” the Reuters news agency reported him saying.

“Despite the danger, being surrounded, ministers and politicians came, to die if necessary. With that bravery, with that loyalty, nothing can defeat us.”

The commander of Ecuador’s police force has resigned, a police spokesman said on Friday.

The drama began on Thursday morning when members of the armed forces and police angry at the austerity measures occupied several barracks and set up road blocks across the country.

TV stations showed images of police setting tyres on fire in the streets of Quito, Guayaquil and other cities. The National Assembly building was also occupied.

Police also took control of Quito’s international airport for several hours.

Looting was reported in the capital and Ecuador’s largest city, Guayaquil. Banks were robbed and schools and businesses closed.