In a sweeping 24-hour security operation across Panama, the National Police announced on Wednesday, July 23, that a total of 181 individuals were apprehended in a series of coordinated actions targeting criminal activity, micro-trafficking, and traffic violations.
According to an official police briefing, the arrests stemmed from various circumstances:
- 125 individuals were detained ex officio as part of routine investigations and enforcement measures.
- 23 were held for administrative offenses, such as violations of civic regulations.
- 21 were caught in the act (in flagrante delicto), highlighting the immediate response capabilities of law enforcement.
- 12 arrests were linked to micro-trafficking, underscoring ongoing efforts to dismantle local drug networks.
As part of the operation, 82 raids were executed in targeted zones. These interventions resulted in the seizure of:
- 2 vehicles, possibly used for illegal activities
- 3 firearms and 187 rounds of ammunition
- $55 in cash, likely connected to street-level drug transactions
- 20 packages of suspected narcotics, which are currently undergoing laboratory analysis for confirmation
Authorities emphasized that these crackdowns are part of a broader strategy to combat organized crime and improve public safety, especially in urban and high-crime areas.
On the transportation front, the Traffic Operations Directorate of the National Police conducted a parallel enforcement sweep. Officers issued 1,166 traffic violation citations within the same 24-hour period. Violations included:
- 154 for excessive speeding
- 55 for inadequate vehicle lighting
- 15 for mobile phone use while driving
- 13 for operating a vehicle with an expired license
- 6 citations for driving under the influence
Additionally, 50 vehicles were impounded by tow trucks due to infractions or mechanical issues deemed unsafe for public roads.
This latest operation forms part of the government’s intensifying efforts to restore order in high-risk sectors, crack down on illegal firearms, and dismantle small-scale drug operations. The National Police reiterated their commitment to maintaining a visible presence on the streets, not only to catch offenders but also to serve as a deterrent.
The continued multi-pronged approach—combining crime suppression, traffic law enforcement, and community engagement—is aimed at reinforcing citizen safety and disrupting criminal operations before they escalate.
Authorities are urging the public to report any suspicious activity via the National Police tip lines or through community policing programs currently active in multiple provinces.
As the security climate continues to evolve, more large-scale operations of this kind are expected in the coming weeks.
