Panama - September 2024

President José Raúl Mulino announced the implementation of temporary regional curfews for minors and enhanced security in response to an increase in gang activity and organized crime. The nighttime curfews were established in the regions of Colón and San Miguelito, followed by one in Bocas del Toro. President Mulino has expressed that the measure would be assessed periodically and, if necessary, further measures, including curfews for people over 18 years old, would be implemented. He also announced that the National Aeronaval Service (SENAN) would take over security tasks in all airports and would increase its presence in coastal areas through patrolling. By early October, Mulino stated that in Colón and San Miguelito the curfews had resulted in a five per cent reduction of crime, however the long-term impact of the strategy is yet to be seen.   

Sources: Presidencia Panamá (1), Presidencia Panamá (2), La Prensa Panama, Telemetro