Panama prison escape: One week on, 21 inmates still fugitives amid ongoing searches

Panama City is entering its second week of heightened security and ongoing searches following a massive prison break from La Joyita penitentiary. Authorities are actively pursuing the 21 inmates still at large out of the 195 who escaped on June 1 during an internal inmate rotation.

Intensified police operations, including vehicle and driver inspections, are concentrated in the eastern sector of the capital, particularly between Monte Madero and Las Garzas. These checkpoints, while aimed at recapturing the fugitives, have led to significant traffic delays for daily commuters.

Since the escape, national operations have resulted in the recapture of 174 individuals. Many of the recaptured inmates face charges related to homicide, drug offenses, and other serious crimes. The National Police released the images of the 21 remaining fugitives and increased the reward to $1,000 for information leading to their capture.

The Public Ministry has conducted at least 26 preliminary hearings for recaptured inmates, resulting in 12 convictions through plea agreements for evasion. These sentences will be added to their existing prison terms. Meanwhile, a "Lockdown Operation" at La Joyita has uncovered contraband, including cell phones, firearms, and chargers, indicating ongoing security challenges within the facility.