Panama drug traffickers adapt methods to evade controls, boost smuggling

Panama's drug cartels are constantly evolving their tactics to circumvent law enforcement. Recent months have seen a rise in sophisticated methods, moving beyond traditional "mules." Organizations now impregnate clothing and other items with illicit substances, which are later extracted through chemical processes. This strategy aims to bypass enhanced technological inspections at ports of entry.

"Contaminated sheets, car parts that have been detected inside containing cocaine, even fabric briefcases that have been impregnated with illicit substances – these are the daily challenges we face in this frontal fight against drug trafficking," stated William Granados, a drug prosecutor. This highlights the ingenuity of criminal structures in moving their cargo.

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Contaminated sheets, car parts that have been detected inside containing cocaine, even fabric briefcases that have been impregnated with illicit substances – these are the daily challenges we face in this frontal fight against drug trafficking.

Authorities have also observed an increase in drug shipments via cargo companies and the use of small, artisanal fishing boats. These vessels operate in both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. According to Maycol Palacios, head of operations for the National Aeronaval Service (Senan), the use of these small fishing boats is one of the most frequently detected methods this year, second only to seizures at ports.

"It is used mostly in the Panamanian Pacific, due to the geography and the coastal features of the Pacific. They also use this method for camouflage with the daily activities of our main coastal communities, such as fishing and transporting tourists to the islands," Palacios explained. As of 2026, Senan has seized approximately 40 tons of drugs in 64 anti-drug operations, underscoring the persistent adaptation of drug trafficking networks.

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It is used mostly in the Panamanian Pacific, due to the geography and the coastal features of the Pacific. They also use this method for camouflage with the daily activities of our main coastal communities, such as fishing and transporting tourists to the islands.