Panama police admit to using undercover agents in social organizations

The National Police of Panama has officially confirmed the use of undercover agents within social organizations and labor unions. This admission follows legal complaints filed by various collectives and unions, including Suntracs, alleging illegal espionage.

Lawyers representing these groups intend to submit evidence to the Attorney General's Office and the National Assembly's Human Rights Commission. The evidence reportedly includes photographic records and the identification of approximately 40 agents. Activists claim these surveillance practices aim to intimidate leaders and organizations critical of government policies, specifically those opposing mining in Donoso and hydroelectric projects at Río Indio.

In an official statement, the National Police maintained that these operations are conducted within the law to preserve public order and national security. The institution asserted that such activities respect human rights and the right to peaceful protest, provided they do not infringe upon the rights of third parties.