Reporting on criminal incidents, investigations, and law enforcement responses across Panama. Stories focus on facts, community impact, and safety developments.
Panama’s National Police arrested 551 people nationwide over 72 hours and carried out seizures that included firearms, cash, drugs, and recovered vehicles. Traffic officers also issued 2,555 citations, led by speeding and lighting violations.
A National Police officer died after being wounded during an operation in El Chorrillo, prompting authorities to intensify the search connected to the case. The incident highlights the risks police face during security operations in Panama City.
Panama’s Security Ministry confirmed the death of Second Sergeant Albis Espinosa during an operation in El Chorrillo. Police have launched a wider deployment in the area following the incident.
Panama’s National Police arrested a suspect known as “Yamir” after the fatal shooting of Sergeant Second Albis Espinoza in El Chorrillo. The officer died after being shot in the chest while on duty.
New Zealand customs found nearly $17 million in cocaine hidden in a shipping container that had carried legitimate goods from Balboa, Panama. The seizure highlights the risks of drug trafficking through international cargo routes.
Panama’s insecurity debate is being influenced by Bukele’s tough-on-crime model in El Salvador, where the CECOT prison and state of exception have cut homicides but raised rights concerns. Strong public approval of Bukele in Panama is fueling questions about how far the country should go on security.
A National Police officer died after being shot during an operation in El Chorrillo, Panama City. Police have intensified efforts to capture those responsible.
A National Police corporal, Elvis Espinoza, died after being shot in the chest during an armed confrontation in El Chorrillo, Panama City. Police launched operations to find those responsible as violence in the capital continues to rise.
Five armed criminals broke into a home in Colón, threatened a child, and stole a vehicle before police later recovered it. The case highlights ongoing concerns about violent robberies in the province.
Panama City’s Plaza 5 de Mayo will host the Armas por Comida weapons-for-food exchange on April 13. The campaign aims to encourage voluntary weapon surrender as part of a public safety effort.
Drivers in Villa Lucre are being warned about robberies involving stones thrown at vehicles on the North Corridor. The tactic has raised safety concerns and renewed calls for more security along the busy Panama City route.
Panama customs seized a $1.3 million cigarette shipment and moved to tighten controls in the Colón Free Zone amid growing concerns over smuggling and illicit trade. Officials say a new digital tracking system is designed to close long-standing loopholes.
Panama’s Supreme Court is advancing the second Odebrecht trial, with evidence now being admitted against Juan Carlos Varela, Jaime Ford and the Martinelli brothers. The case brings together key figures from Panama’s political and corruption scandals.
Panama National Police seized weapons and drugs during a raid that dismantled a clandestine bunker in La Chorrera, Panamá Oeste. The operation is part of ongoing efforts to disrupt organized crime and trafficking networks near the capital region.
Firefighters controlled a blaze in Punta Chame that burned several containers holding hydraulic oil and nearby grassland. Crews remained on scene cooling and checking the area to prevent flare-ups.
Panama National Police seized weapons and drugs in a raid that dismantled a clandestine bunker in La Chorrera. The case has now entered the judicial process.
Residents are asking for stronger security on the North Corridor near Villa Lucre after reports that criminals have been throwing rocks at vehicles at night to rob occupants. The incidents have heightened safety concerns for motorists and bus passengers using the route.
Police dismantled a clandestine bunker in La Chorrera after a citizen tip led officers to a wooded area in La Estancia #1. Authorities seized a firearm, suspected drugs, ammunition, cash, and other items tied to criminal activity.
Multiple killings in Río Abajo have raised fresh alarm over organized crime and public safety in Panama City. The violence has deepened concern for residents living in one of the capital’s most affected areas.
A taxi driver was killed in Nuevo Vigía, Colón, after several individuals stopped his vehicle and shot him multiple times. The killing adds to security concerns in one of Panama’s most violence-affected provinces.