Panama Ministry: Detainee transfer to Coiba Island poses no threat to tourism or environment

Panama's Ministry of Environment has stated that the recent transfer of detainees to Coiba Island has not negatively affected tourism, fishing, or ongoing scientific research within the Coiba National Park. Vice Minister of Environment Óscar Ballarino emphasized that the ministry, which chairs the park's governing council, is actively communicating with all represented sectors.

Concerns arose following the relocation of detainees to an area used by the National Aeronaval Service (Senan), which historically detains individuals involved in illicit activities like drug trafficking and illegal fishing. Ballarino acknowledged the need to address national security issues while assuring communities and productive sectors that the area's natural resources remain unharmed.

Activities related to environmental conservation, research, and monitoring continue without disruption. The island hosts a scientific station with Panamanian and international researchers, as well as university students conducting academic projects. Additionally, 39 park rangers actively work to preserve the park's ecosystems.

These statements come after tourism representatives and local authorities in Veraguas province requested more information about the measures implemented on Coiba Island, a significant ecotourism destination. Ballarino reiterated Coiba's importance as a UNESCO World Heritage site and a key component of the Eastern Tropical Pacific Marine Corridor, an initiative involving Panama, Costa Rica, Colombia, and Ecuador to protect marine species and strategic ecosystems.