San Miguelito installs 50 panic buttons to boost citizen security

In response to rising crime rates, including homicides, shootings, and robberies, the district of San Miguelito in Panama has deployed 50 panic buttons at key points and high-traffic areas. This initiative aims to bolster citizen security by providing an immediate reporting mechanism for crimes and emergencies.

The blue-colored buttons, identifiable by a flashing light, are designed to allow citizens to report incidents instantly. Upon activation, the system automatically directs surveillance cameras to the location of the alert and establishes communication with the Municipal Operations Center. Alvin Reyes, director of Municipal Security, explained that the cameras focus on the alert point, enabling direct interaction with the operations center.

The Municipal Operations Center is equipped with approximately 600 surveillance cameras, monitored 24 hours a day. This platform serves as a crucial support tool for the National Police and other emergency response agencies operating within the district. Authorities report an average response time of four to five minutes to alerts generated by the panic buttons.

Beyond public space surveillance, the system monitors vehicle license plates, aiding in the identification of stolen cars. According to officials, this technology has been instrumental in recovering 486 vehicles so far this year. The installation of these panic buttons represents the second phase of the district's video surveillance program.

Authorities have identified several corregimientos, including Arnulfo Arias, Belisario Frías, and Belisario Porras, as areas with the highest incidence of crime, suggesting these locations were prioritized for the new security measures.

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The cameras are directed to that point, and an interaction is created with the operations center.