Violence claims 22 minors in five months; experts warn of insecurity's impact

Panama is grappling with a disturbing rise in violence affecting its youth, with 22 minors losing their lives in violent incidents over the past five months. These tragic events, which have shocked the nation, underscore a growing crisis impacting children and adolescents.

A recent incident in Panama City saw a 10-year-old girl and her stepfather fatally shot while en route to school. The community responded by demanding an end to the violence, with parents noting increased police presence around the school. Sociologist José Lazo observes that minors often become collateral damage in adult conflicts or are drawn into environments saturated with crime and insecurity.

The province of Colón has been particularly hard-hit, recording multiple homicides of minors. Among the victims were 14-year-old basketball prospect Yacet Bustamante, killed in May, and Juan Alberto Vargas, son of a local singer, who died in a violent incident. The remains of 15-year-old Cristian Ortega were also found in Cativá after a month-long search. In May alone, Colón registered six homicides of minors, a statistic that alarms residents and specialists alike.

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There is a general insecurity that is affecting those who do not participate in criminal dynamics.

Experts warn that a confluence of social factors significantly heightens the risk for young people. These include high school dropout rates, easy access to drugs and weapons, and the pervasive influence of criminal organizations in vulnerable communities. There is growing concern that criminal groups may be actively recruiting minors, potentially even within school settings.

The Public Ministry has stated that investigations into many of these cases are ongoing, with arrests being made. However, the persistent violence against minors highlights a critical public safety issue requiring urgent attention and comprehensive solutions.

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All these social factors put our adolescents at risk.