La Chorrera officials request new police substations

Local officials in the La Chorrera district of Panama Oeste are calling for the construction of new police substations and increased resources to combat rising security concerns. Rapid urban and population growth in the outlying areas of the 661.08 square kilometer district has strained existing law enforcement capabilities.

Representatives from several corregimientos have highlighted specific vulnerabilities. In Herrera, Carlos Mendoza reported that a single vehicle is insufficient to patrol 20 residential developments, noting that recreational areas are being used for illicit drug consumption. In Puerto Caimito, Ulises González requested increased surveillance near schools to protect students from suspected drug dealers. Meanwhile, Héctor Castro of Amador announced that municipal land is available to be transferred to the National Police for a new station.

Subcommissioner Yadira Gantes, head of the Tenth Police Zone of Panama Oeste, indicated that advanced negotiations are underway with a developer to build a substation in the Altos de las Praderas community.