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.
First Quantum is advancing its Taca Taca project in Argentina while still dealing with the consequences of the Cobre Panama shutdown. The company’s next steps remain closely tied to Panama’s mining dispute and investor confidence.
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.
Panama is navigating a global energy shock that has boosted the strategic value of the Canal while exposing deep domestic political and institutional fractures. Rising costs, unemployment and corruption concerns continue to weigh on public confidence.
Panama’s Comptroller General’s Office said its official Instagram account was compromised and warned that any content posted during that period was unauthorized. The alert underscores the risks of relying on social media posts without verification.
Panama’s Comptroller General’s office said its official Instagram account was hacked Sunday night and that security protocols were activated to recover control. The institution warned that any unauthorized posts from the account should not be treated as official.
Panama opened the 2026 South American Youth Games with a major ceremony at Rommel Fernández Stadium, featuring national music, delegation parades and the cauldron lighting. The event brings more than 2,000 athletes to compete across 23 disciplines through April 25.
Panama is marking Good Deeds Day for the 11th year with a campaign that encourages citizens to take part in solidarity actions. This year’s message, “Haciendo el bien inspiras,” highlights the power of example in building community spirit.
Archbishop José Domingo Ulloa used Panama’s Great Eucharistic Gathering to denounce corruption, saying it worsens poverty and steals the future from the country’s children. He linked the issue to more than 482 children living in poverty or extreme poverty nationwide.
A debate over a gift to an elected official has renewed attention on Panama’s public ethics rules and the need to curb both small-scale and systemic corruption. The discussion centers on stricter civic education, clearer oversight, and real enforcement of the law.
Panama’s government is facing renewed criticism after authorizing processing and export activity tied to Cobre Panamá despite the country’s mining moratorium. The move has reopened a major debate over legality, economic pressure and public trust.
Global stocks fell and oil jumped above US$100 after President Trump said U.S. forces would block the Strait of Hormuz, raising fears of a wider Middle East war. The escalation could ripple through energy markets, inflation, and trade worldwide.
Several sectors of San Miguelito were left without normal drinking water service after a power failure affected a treated-water pumping station tied to the Chilibre plant. Idaan said the plant was operating at 90% capacity while repair work continued.
Panama City sanitation workers were honored during a Good Deeds Day tribute organized by Jewish-Panamanian foundations. The event recognized their essential role in keeping the capital clean and livable.
Oil prices climbed above $103 a barrel after the United States announced a naval blockade of Iran, sending Asian stocks lower and rattling global markets. The escalation raises concerns about energy supplies and shipping routes critical to world trade.
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.
Three Panamanian productions were recognized from 34 proposals for spotlighting the character and stories of the country’s neighborhoods. The selections reinforce the growing visibility of local cinema rooted in community identity.
SINAPROC has maintained a weather watch in Panama through April 13 due to rain and thunderstorms affecting several parts of the country. Residents are being urged to take precautions and follow official updates.
