Fire Damages Renovated Health Sub-center in Panama; Homeless Individual Suspected

A fire broke out early Saturday morning, causing damage to the Don Bosco Health Sub-center in San Miguelito, Panama. The facility was undergoing renovations to be upgraded to a full health center.

The Ministry of Health (Minsa) stated that the incident was likely caused by a homeless individual who also allegedly stole electrical wiring from the building. The fire caused structural damage and affected the ceiling of the facility. Firefighters from the Benemérito Cuerpo de Bomberos de Panamá controlled the blaze.

Minsa expressed regret over the incident, emphasizing that such actions not only harm public infrastructure but also disrupt essential services for local residents. The San Miguelito Regional Health Directorate has filed a formal complaint with the Directorate of Judicial Investigation (DIJ) to determine responsibility for the damages.

The ministry also called on the community to help protect health facilities and report any vandalism that could jeopardize public healthcare services.