Panama's ombudsman investigates potential rights violations in prisons after escape

Panama's Defensoria del Pueblo, the ombudsman's office, has launched two collective complaints to investigate possible human rights violations within the La Joya and La Joyita penitentiary centers. This action was prompted by concerns raised by relatives of inmates following a mass escape from La Joyita on the evening of June 1.

“

to investigate possible afectations to the rights of human beings, evaluate the particular cases exposed and maintain vigilance over the conditions of detention, feeding, access to basic inputs and security of the persons deprived of liberty.

The Defensoria del Pueblo stated on Monday, June 8, that the investigations will examine potential impacts on human rights, evaluate individual cases, and monitor the conditions of detention, including access to food, basic supplies, and overall security for the incarcerated population. The office will also follow up on inmates transferred to Chiriquí's penitentiary centers.

Dídimo Cerrud of the Protection of the Rights of Detained Persons division detailed that family members approached the Defensoria seeking assurances for the safety and fundamental rights of the inmates, regardless of their incarceration status. The institution committed to overseeing respect for human dignity and adherence to national and international human rights standards within Panama's correctional facilities.

“

They are in shorts, without sweaters, without footwear. They are human beings.

Families of inmates reported that during the "Cerrojo" (Bolt) operation conducted by security forces, inmates were stripped of mattresses, clothing, and footwear, leaving them with only the clothes they were wearing. Relatives attempted to deliver essential items like food, hygiene products, and clothing to the La Joyita facility on Monday morning but were reportedly denied entry. The "Cerrojo" operation involved 2,494 security agents and resulted in the confiscation of firearms, over 150 cell phones, chargers, and Starlink antennas from various prison blocks.

“

they were stripped of mattresses, clothing, footwear and food, leaving the detainees, who, according to the testimonies, were left only with the clothes they were wearing.