Three Panamanians ordered into provisional detention for migrant trafficking

Three Panamanian citizens have been ordered into provisional detention, accused of involvement in the illicit trafficking of migrants.

During a court hearing, their apprehension was legalized, along with the seizure of money and vehicles involved in the alleged crimes, according to the Attorney General's Office. The investigation was prompted by an operation on August 2, 2026, around 12:05 AM, in Tortí, Chepo district, Panama province.

Authorities reported that one of the accused was arrested while allegedly transporting three Venezuelan migrants in a white Kia Soluto. The suspects are accused of facilitating the irregular departure of these migrants from Panama. This vehicle was reportedly traveling alongside a gray Hyundai Verna.

When police attempted to stop the vehicles, the driver of the Hyundai Verna fled with its occupants, leading to a pursuit by the National Police. The suspects were apprehended later that morning. A backpack containing personal documents, including birth and school certificates, was found in one of the vehicles, helping to identify a Cameroonian migrant.

The Public Ministry asserts that the accused were involved in the irregular transport of foreigners for purposes related to migrant trafficking. Investigations are ongoing to identify any other potential participants and determine the route used for transporting the migrants.