18 to Face Trial for Double Homicide, Kidnapping, and Robbery in Panama

A Panamanian judge has ordered 18 individuals to stand trial for a double homicide that occurred in June 2024 in the Guánico Abajo sector of Tonosí. The accused will face oral proceedings for aggravated intentional homicide, criminal association, robbery, and kidnapping. This development follows an intermediate hearing where the trial is scheduled to commence on April 26, 2027.

The case has already seen four convictions through plea agreements and sentencing. One defendant received a 344-month prison sentence, equivalent to 28.5 years, after admitting guilt for aggravated intentional homicide, criminal association, and arms trafficking. Additionally, two others were sentenced to 297 months (24.5 years) for aggravated intentional homicide and criminal association. A fourth individual was also sentenced to 297 months in March for his involvement.

During the intermediate hearing, over 400 pieces of evidence, including testimonies, expert reports, and documents, were admitted for presentation by both the Public Ministry and the defense. These will be debated during the trial. The Public Ministry was represented by prosecutor Liberia Cedeño, while the defendants were represented by public defenders. The victims' representation was handled by public defender Grecillén Hernández Barahona. The investigation into the case began on June 18, 2024, after two bodies were discovered in Guánico Abajo.