What Happened
Panama’s National Police detained 38 adults and held two minors during the first night of a curfew in San Miguelito, where restrictions began at 10:00 p.m. on Friday and ran until 4:00 a.m. Saturday.
The enforcement took place under Decree 06 and focused on the corregimientos of Belisario Frías and Arnulfo Arias, areas identified by authorities as having high levels of criminal activity. Police said the people were found in streets and walkways during restricted hours without a valid reason to be outside.
How the Operation Was Carried Out
The security deployment included preventive patrols through main avenues and neighborhood paths, along with checks on people who were outside during the curfew period. Those who could not justify their presence in public spaces were taken into custody and turned over to the relevant authorities.
The two minors were taken in as part of the operation to protect their safety and to allow contact with their legal guardians.
Why the Curfew Was Put in Place
The San Miguelito Mayor’s Office established the nighttime restriction as part of an effort to reduce violence and restore public order in the district. The measure applies on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m. the next day.
Officials said the goal is to improve coexistence and strengthen security in neighborhoods where crime levels have been a persistent concern. The curfew gives police broader authority to intervene when people are in public spaces during prohibited hours.
What Residents Need to Know
Authorities said the operation will continue throughout the weekend. Police also warned that violating the decree can lead to immediate detention and transfer to peace judges or other competent authorities for the corresponding sanctions.
For residents of San Miguelito, the measure signals a more forceful security presence in the district after the start of the curfew. The first night’s results show that enforcement will likely remain a central part of the plan as officials try to discourage nighttime movement and curb criminal activity.