Panama launches military operation near Colombian border

Panama has launched a new military operation, titled "Operation Steel Shield-Phase V," to bolster security along its border with Colombia. The move comes following attacks in various parts of Colombia that resulted in the death of a police officer and several injuries during the first day of Colombian President Abelardo De La Espriella's term.

Launched from the Mititi military base, the operation involves the deployment of Panama's National Border Service in military formations, including maritime patrols along both the Pacific and Atlantic coasts. The Panamanian Ministry of Security stated that the operation aims to "strengthen the presence of the state in strategic areas of national security and enforce the rule of law against any threat that may jeopardize the security and safety of the population."

Lary Solis, Director General of the National Border Service, noted that the operation includes over 15 boats distributed between the Caribbean and Pacific to tighten coastal surveillance and confront criminal groups directly. The border area, characterized by the 266-kilometer Darien Gap, is a remote jungle region known for the historical activity of irregular armed groups, including concerns regarding the Clan del Golfo and the National Liberation Army.