Matthew Cox | Inside True Crime Podcast How He Survived 7 Years in the World’s Toughest Prison
Nov 22, 2025
Oscar Castro reveals his harrowing journey through Ecuador's brutal prisons after a smuggling sting. From his early hustles in New Jersey to drug trafficking schemes, he shares the chilling details of his arrest and the shocking realities of prison life. Experience his dramatic escape attempts, survival strategies, and encounters with corruption. After years spent behind bars, Oscar's return to the outside world is a testament to resilience and newfound freedom, as he now shares stories to shed light on the prison system.
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How He Became A Drug Mule
- Oscar Castro started smuggling drugs as a teenager by hiding kilos in shoe soles and sandals for quick cash.
- He made large sums early but was caught on his third trip and arrested in Ecuador in 2002.
Arrest In Quito And Conflicting Evidence
- Interpol and local police arrested Oscar in an Ecuador hotel after a Colombian mule left a bag with him.
- Authorities beat, searched and accused him of owning a kilo despite inconsistencies in the evidence.
Prison As A Party On First Night
- On arrival to Tulcán jail Oscar saw a party-like prison yard with music, vendors and female inmates mingling.
- He was placed with a local capo who treated parts of the jail like home while Christmas Eve parties continued.