Entry denied to two Ecuadorians for alleged links to criminal organization

Panama's National Migration Service denied entry to two Ecuadorian nationals arriving at Tocumen International Airport. The decision was based on security checks that allegedly linked the individuals to the criminal organization known as 'Los Choneros'.

The two travelers arrived on a flight originating from Manta, Ecuador, with Panama as their final destination. Authorities stated that after conducting verifications, it was determined that the individuals did not meet the requirements for entry into the country due to intelligence connecting them to the aforementioned criminal structure.

Following established procedures in current migratory legislation, the two Ecuadorian citizens were returned to their country of origin. This action underscores Panama's efforts to control entry and prevent individuals with alleged criminal ties from entering its territory.

In a separate incident on Sunday morning, migration agents apprehended a U.S. citizen at the same airport. This individual had an active arrest warrant for alleged conspiracy to commit electronic fraud and conspiracy to commit bank fraud. The U.S. national was handed over to the relevant authorities and denied transit through Panama.