Provisional detention ordered for man accused of gender-based violence in Chiriquí

A 27-year-old man in Panama's Chiriquí province will remain in provisional detention after being charged with gender-based violence and violating a protection order. The Regional Prosecutor's Office of Chiriquí presented evidence during a hearing that investigators believe links the accused to the alleged crimes.

The prosecution also argued for the necessity of the detention, citing risks to the victim and her family. Based on these arguments, the Court of Guarantees ordered the provisional detention for the legally established term. The alleged incidents began in January 2026 in the district of David, according to the Attorney General's Office.

Reports indicate the accused had a romantic relationship with the victim before allegedly beginning to stalk and harass her through phone calls and social media. The investigation suggests the man also issued threats and insults and physically assaulted the victim. A protection order was reportedly in place, which the accused is alleged to have violated due to the repeated episodes of violence.

According to the Public Ministry, these events caused fear and psychological distress to the victim. Investigations are ongoing to fully clarify the case. The article also notes that over 7,000 domestic violence reports were filed in 2026.