Immigration captures Salvadoran 'Barrio 18' gang member wanted by Interpol in Colón

Panamanian immigration officials apprehended a Salvadoran national in Colón, identifying him as an active member of the notorious 'Barrio 18' gang and a fugitive sought by Interpol. The 34-year-old foreigner was detained during 'Garra de Águila 3.0' operations, aimed at bolstering migration control and border security.

Authorities stated the individual is wanted for a range of serious offenses, including homicide, extortion, illegal deprivation of liberty, and drug trafficking. International records also link him to terrorist organizations. This arrest marks the fourth gang member deported from Panama in the past week, highlighting ongoing efforts to dismantle transnational criminal networks operating within the country.

The 'Barrio 18' gang is recognized as one of the largest criminal organizations in the hemisphere, responsible for attacks against security forces, public officials, and civilians across Central America. The United States designated the group as a terrorist organization in 2025.

The detained Salvadoran has been handed over to the Judicial Secretariat of the National Migration Service for further legal proceedings. The operation underscores Panama's commitment to reinforcing immigration controls and cooperating with international security agencies in the fight against organized crime.