Court upholds detention for man accused of sexual crimes against five minors

A 75-year-old man will remain in provisional detention after Panama's Superior Court of Appeals unanimously confirmed the measure. He is linked to five investigations into sexual offenses against minors.

The accused faces charges of aggravated sexual violations and corruption of minors. Prosecutors presented compelling arguments to the magistrates, leading to the court's decision to uphold the pre-trial detention order, which was initially issued by a judge in Colón province.

According to the Public Ministry, the alleged abuse took place between December 2025 and May 2026 in the Guna Yala region. The victims are reportedly between 5 and 9 years old. Investigations indicate that the man not only committed physical assaults but also forced the children to witness sexual acts and, in some cases, offered them money to ensure their silence.

The Attorney General's Office has reiterated its commitment to conducting objective and transparent investigations, ensuring the exercise of criminal action in accordance with the Constitution and the law.