Ep 12. Ecuador

In the twelfth episode of the second season of Locked Up Abroad, titled Ecuador, viewers follow the story of two friends, Hamish and Joe, who set off on a backpacking adventure through South America. The episode begins with the two young men arriving in Ecuador, excited to immerse themselves in the country's unique culture and natural beauty.

As they travel through Ecuador, Hamish and Joe meet a local man named Juan who offers to take them on a hiking trip to a remote crater lake. The two friends eagerly accept the invitation and pack their bags for the adventure. However, their excitement turns to fear when they realize Juan has brought them into a drug smuggling operation and they are now trapped in the middle of a dangerous criminal organization.

Hamish and Joe are apprehended by the police and sentenced to eight years in a notoriously harsh Ecuadorian prison. Locked Up Abroad tells the story of their time in prison, the struggles they faced, and the friendships they formed in the darkest of places. The episode also features interviews with both men, their families, and former inmates who share their experiences and perspectives on the South American prison system.

Throughout the episode, viewers are given a firsthand look into the brutal conditions of the Ecuadorian prison system, including the lack of basic necessities like bedding, proper food, and medical care. Hamish and Joe must navigate the harsh reality of their situation, trying to survive each day while also trying to hold onto hope for their eventual release.

Locked Up Abroad also explores the impact that their incarceration has on their families back home, including the emotional toll and financial strain of supporting loved ones in a foreign country. The episode highlights the importance of staying connected with family and friends during a difficult time and the strength that can be found in those relationships.

As Hamish and Joe spend years behind bars, they form close bonds with other inmates and even become part of a successful prison rock band. Locked Up Abroad shows the power of music to bring people together, even in the most challenging of circumstances. The episode culminates in their eventual release from prison, and the emotional moment when they are reunited with their families after years apart.

Overall, Locked Up Abroad: Ecuador is a gripping account of two young men who find themselves caught in a dangerous criminal operation in a foreign country. It is a sobering reminder of the harsh realities of the South American prison system and the impact that incarceration can have on individuals and their loved ones. Through the resilience and determination of Hamish and Joe, viewers are reminded of the power of hope and human connection even in the darkest of places.