Panama reports rise in bus and stop thefts, passengers urged to stay vigilant

Panama City, Panama – Passengers and authorities are raising alarms about a noticeable rise in thefts and pickpocketing incidents occurring on public buses and at transit stops, especially in bustling areas like Gran Estación de San Miguelito and the 5 de Mayo stop.

The National Police have identified these locations as frequent hotspots for "cancheros," or pickpockets, who exploit crowded conditions and jostling to steal cell phones, wallets, and other belongings. The issue gained significant traction after a video circulated on social media showing a university student being robbed on a moving metrobus. In the footage, the driver kept the doors closed while security protocols were activated and police were summoned.

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When you have a situation inside the bus, inform the operator. We as a company have a protocol where the operator communicates with the control center and from here we coordinate with the Police.

Juan Yau, director of logistics for MiBus, the public transport operator, explained the company's protocol for such events. He stated that operators must immediately contact the control center when an incident occurs, allowing for coordination with the National Police. In some cases, bus doors are kept shut to prevent the suspect from escaping before law enforcement arrives. MiBus also confirmed the presence of police in 18 designated fare zones to provide assistance.

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Pickpockets look for opportunity, distraction, and silence

Commuters have shared experiences of frequent robberies, particularly during peak hours when crowds make boarding difficult. Some passengers reported that thieves often work in groups, using the pushing and shoving to access bags and steal items unnoticed. Concerns have also been raised about some perpetrators carrying knives, leading to calls for increased police presence at stops and boarding areas.

National Police agent Richard González advised commuters to take precautions, such as carrying bags and purses in front of their bodies, avoiding distractions from their phones, and remaining aware of their surroundings. "Pickpockets look for opportunity, distraction, and silence," he warned. He also urged passengers to report any suspicious activity immediately and to make noise if they become victims, as criminals often rely on silence and a lack of reaction.

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Two or three people do the job. In the pushing, they open people's bags.