---
title: "Disturbance at Tocumen Youth Shelter Sparks Search and Review of Protections"
date: 2026-03-25
author: ""
url: https://panamadaily.news/2026/03/25/tocumen-cai-disturbance/
categories:
  - "Crime"
  - "News"
  - "Politics"
tags:
  - "Alexandra Brenes"
  - "juvenile shelter"
  - "Lilibeth Cárdenas"
  - "Senniaf"
  - "Tocumen"
---

# Disturbance at Tocumen Youth Shelter Sparks Search and Review of Protections

## What Happened

An “irregular” incident occurred the night of Tuesday, March 24, at the Centro de Atención Integral (CAI) de Tocumen, the National Secretariat for Childhood, Adolescence and Family (Senniaf) reported. According to Senniaf, a group of adolescents carried out actions that caused material damage, the theft of money and the evasion of several minors from the shelter, prompting immediate search protocols.

## Response and Operation

Authorities said they activated containment and security measures to protect both the adolescents and staff at the center. A coordinated operation was deployed that included Senniaf director Lilibeth Cárdenas; the Ombudsman, Eduardo Leblanc González; units of the Police for Childhood and Adolescence; and personnel from the Ministry of Social Development and the Public Ministry. Senniaf has indicated that the search protocols were implemented at once to locate the youths who left the facility.

## Investigation Underway

Investigations remain open to clarify the circumstances of the events at the CAI de Tocumen and to determine possible responsibilities, authorities said. Senniaf has stated it will continue working alongside the competent institutions to strengthen care measures and ensure safe and dignified environments in its centers.

## Background

The incident adds to earlier public scrutiny of the management of the state-run shelter system in Panama, particularly with respect to centers administered by Senniaf. The case has gained political attention after allegations and concerns raised by deputy Alexandra Brenes, who has reported potential irregularities and alleged crimes within this state shelter.

## What This Means

The episode at the CAI de Tocumen underscores persistent tensions around the oversight and operation of juvenile care facilities under Senniaf. Authorities’ mobilization — involving top agency leadership, the Ombudsman and law enforcement units for children and adolescents — signals an official attempt to both find the youths who fled and to respond to wider concerns about shelter safety and management. For now, officials emphasize that containment measures were applied and that inquiries will seek to establish facts and responsibilities.