The latest, verified reporting on events across Panama and beyond. This section covers breaking stories, developments, and essential daily news.
Authorities seized high-caliber firearms during a security operation in Rio Abajo after a double homicide in the area. The move comes amid stepped-up police activity in Panama City’s corregimiento.
Ángela Russo has been elected as Panama’s new Defensor del Pueblo, putting renewed focus on the office’s role in protecting human rights and holding institutions accountable. The post also carries a $7,000 monthly salary and is chosen by the National Assembly.
Panama City Hall has launched Nexus Lab, offering more than 1,000 digital scholarships on Platzi for young people. The initiative aims to expand access to tech training and strengthen youth job prospects.
Angela Russo’s election as Panama’s new ombudsman triggered immediate political reactions, highlighting divisions and alliances inside the National Assembly. The vote also drew attention to the importance of the office in defending citizens’ rights.
President José Raúl Mulino says Panama’s anti-violence strategy is being adjusted daily as the country faces a rise in homicides. By February 2026, 77 homicides had been recorded nationwide, making violence a major public security concern.
Panama has recorded 1,670 dengue cases, including 10 severe infections and six deaths. Health officials are urging people to eliminate mosquito breeding sites and seek care quickly if warning signs appear.
President José Raúl Mulino’s visit to Balboa port and the election of Ángela Russo as Ombudsperson marked two notable developments in Panama on April 9. Both events highlight the country’s focus on logistics and institutional oversight.
The Panama Canal is seeing a surge in transits as shipping avoids other major chokepoints, with traffic reaching as many as 38 vessels a day. The increase highlights the canal’s global importance and the operational pressures that come with it.
More than 30 artisans and entrepreneurs are participating in the National Fair of Colón in Buena Vista, which runs for 11 days through April 19. The event highlights local craftsmanship and small business activity in the province.
Panama’s president is moving to ease tensions involving China, highlighting the country’s careful balancing act between major powers. The diplomatic effort comes as Panama protects its strategic interests and canal-centered economy.
The CSS opened an internal investigation after detecting irregular payroll practices involving public servants who allegedly simulated alimony deductions. The case highlights concerns over internal controls and accountability in a key Panamanian institution.
Cabinet ministers in Panama are pushing to remove SENADAP’s director after an investigation found a progressive breakdown in the institution. The case centers on alleged mismanagement and a lack of transparency.
President José Raúl Mulino toured Balboa Port after Panama’s constitutional ruling against the Panama Ports Company contract. The visit highlighted the government’s response as international arbitration moves forward.
Syracuse University students joined a medical brigade in Panama, supporting community health care while gaining hands-on experience in the field. The effort highlights Panama’s role in international service learning and health outreach.
A renewed El Niño watch is putting the Panama Canal back under scrutiny after its recent drought recovery. The waterway’s dependence on rainfall keeps climate conditions central to shipping and trade planning.
Residents of Calle 11 y media in Río Abajo say a deadly shooting has left them afraid to keep selling food and supporting their families. The incident has shaken both safety and livelihoods in the neighborhood.
Police in Vacamonte, Arraiján seized more than 5,000 rounds of ammunition and five grenades. The materials were secured and handed over to the authorities for legal proceedings.
Luis H. Moreno has died after a long career tied to civic service and Panama’s financial sector. He was honored by Rotary after 66 years of continuous participation that began in David in 1959.
A woman died after her vehicle left the road and fell into a ditch on the Changuinola-Almirante highway in Bocas del Toro. The crash disrupted traffic for about an hour and adds to the province’s road death toll this year.
Angela Russo’s appointment as Panama’s ombudsman prompted reactions from lawmakers and renewed attention on the role of the Defensoría del Pueblo. The choice puts a spotlight on oversight, human rights, and institutional independence.