Panama deploys 774 new officers to combat organized crime

Panama has incorporated 774 new police officers to bolster security in vulnerable communities. The deployment follows the graduation of the 103rd class, known as 'Legionarios', from the President Belisario Porras Higher Police Institute.

Of the new recruits, 731 will join the National Police and 43 will join the National Migration Service. The group includes 676 public security technicians and 98 criminal investigation specialists. Authorities stated the move is a strategic response to regional challenges, specifically the increased pressure from organized crime and drug trafficking resulting from high cocaine production levels in South America.

Public Security Minister Frank Alexis Abrego emphasized that the reinforcement aims to increase state presence and patrolling in high-need areas through coordinated territorial alliances with local governors and mayors.