12 charged, 3 convicted in Panama for various crimes including sexual offenses and theft

Panamanian authorities have successfully charged 12 individuals and secured three convictions as part of "Operation Obsidian," a major sweep conducted on July 24 across Panama and Panama Oeste provinces. The operation targeted a group allegedly involved in economic crimes, with a primary focus on vehicle theft, but also encompassing other illicit activities.

The Metropolitan Prosecutor's Office announced that the accused face charges ranging from sexual offenses and aggravated robbery to vehicle theft and the handling of stolen goods. Among the judicial outcomes, one man received a 22-year prison sentence for sexual offenses, based on evidence presented by the Sexual Crimes Section. The Section for Crimes Against Economic Heritage secured a 60-month prison agreement for a citizen involved in aggravated vehicle theft in Calidonia, while another individual in the same case received provisional detention, and two others agreed to mediation.

Further reinforcing the operation's impact, the Second Section for Crimes Against Economic Heritage obtained a 72-month prison sentence for aggravated robbery, with another suspect in that case remaining in provisional detention. Additionally, five individuals apprehended during the operation were subjected to precautionary measures other than provisional detention by the Guarantees Court. The Attorney General's Office reiterated its commitment to prosecuting offenders while respecting citizens' rights and adhering to the Constitution and law.