Panama City and San Miguelito grapple with surge in homicides

A recent wave of violence has heightened concerns in Panama's Panama City and San Miguelito districts, where authorities have recorded at least 10 homicides this week alone. Many of these killings are suspected to be connected to disputes between criminal groups, signaling a worrying escalation in organized crime activity.

Jaime Fernández, director of the National Police, acknowledged an increase in homicides compared to previous weeks. "In effect, we have had a slightly higher incidence than in previous weeks. During the month, we have had significant containment," Fernández stated. He noted that the cases stem from various circumstances, including domestic conflicts and, more significantly, rivalries between criminal factions.

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In effect, we have had a slightly higher incidence than in previous weeks. During the month, we have had significant containment.

Sociologist José Lasso views the situation as a reflection of organized crime's deep penetration into society and its recruitment of young people for illicit activities. "This is the result of the presence of organized crime, which has directly permeated communities and used our youth. Increasingly organized structures have been created within the community, generating contract killings," Lasso explained.

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This is the result of the presence of organized crime, which has directly permeated communities and used our youth. Increasingly organized structures have been created within the community, generating contract killings.

In response to the rising violence, security has become a central topic of debate, emphasizing the need for reinforced strategies against criminal organizations. Fernández assured that the National Police are working to enhance their operational and technological capabilities and implement targeted containment strategies. "Security is not something that is built overnight. We have been seeking best practices since we entered the administration, equipping officers in the best way we can for them to do their job," he said.

The police director also highlighted the incorporation of new technology and the ongoing challenge of combating criminal structures. He reported that police operations have led to the containment and capture of approximately 59 criminal structures to date. Authorities are also investigating a double homicide in the area known as Corredor de los Pobres, exploring whether the methods used in some killings are linked to criminal organizations sending messages within their ranks.

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Security is not something that is built overnight. We have been seeking best practices since we entered the administration, equipping officers in the best way we can for them to do their job.