Organized crime infiltration under scrutiny in Panama

Panamanian authorities are addressing the infiltration of organized crime within state institutions, including the National Police and the legislative branch. Jaime Fernández, Director of the National Police, confirmed that several officers have been dismissed and referred to the Public Prosecutor’s Office following identification as potential links to criminal structures.

The National Police utilizes its Directorate of Professional Responsibility to conduct internal reviews of personnel to detect such infiltrations. Fernández noted that criminal organizations have had decades to strengthen their structures and seek access to various institutions. Last year, the police force received over 900 complaints regarding its members, though the specific number of those linked to organized crime has not been disclosed.

The issue extends to the political sphere, with the Supreme Court of Justice maintaining investigations into two deputies regarding potential penetration by organized crime within decision-making spaces. These developments follow warnings from President José Raúl Mulino regarding the refusal to negotiate with drug trafficking organizations.