Panama immigration authorities detain Colombian linked to ‘gota a gota’ lending in Chitré

Panama’s National Migration Service detected a Colombian citizen in Chitré who was allegedly collecting payments through the “gota a gota” lending system, a form of financing repaid through frequent, usually daily, installments.

The intervention took place during Operation Perseus, carried out by the Field Action Immigration Liaison of the agency’s Herrera regional office. After checking his situation, officials determined that the economic activity he was conducting did not comply with the conditions attached to his permission to remain in Panama.

The man was transferred to the Male Administrative Immigration Detention Center, where the corresponding procedures will continue under current immigration rules.

The migration service said the case formed part of permanent operations across Panama to verify foreigners’ entry, residence and authorized activities. Authorities have previously subjected “gota a gota” lending to controls when operators lack the required authorization, and the agency said it would continue immigration inspections nationwide.