Alleged Russia war recruiter detained in Panama on trafficking charges

A 70-year-old man faces human trafficking charges in Panama after allegedly recruiting young people to fight for Russia in Ukraine. He was arrested at the country's main airport while authorities rescued two alleged victims.

During a court hearing, prosecutors presented evidence of surveillance and data seizure, leading to the man's imputation. Local media reported that victims were promised monthly salaries of $3,000 and a $70,000 bonus upon completing their service in the war.

The accused denies the charges, claiming he is merely a taxi driver who provided transportation and that the recruiters are based in Russia. Panamanian authorities have opened four separate investigations into recruitment offers made to young Panamanians, with at least one national confirmed dead in the conflict. The vice foreign minister confirmed 24 Panamanians are linked to the war, mostly on the Russian side.

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The accused denies the accusations against him, assures that he is only a taxi driver who provided the transportation service, that the recruiters are in Russia.