Panama reinforces border security with $785,000 in new equipment

Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino has provided more than $785,000 in equipment to the National Border Service (Senafront) to strengthen security along the border with Colombia. The resources, delivered during a cabinet meeting in Tortí, include pickup vehicles, motorcycles, drones, uniforms, tactical backpacks, and protective gear designed to improve mobility and surveillance capacity.

Mulino ordered increased border patrols to prevent criminal organizations, such as the Clan del Golfo and various guerrilla groups, from entering Panamanian territory. The president emphasized that the remote areas of Darién are a central component of the national security strategy to prevent illegal groups from using Panamanian land for criminal activities.

Additionally, Senafront Director General Larry Solís Velásquez reported a significant decrease in homicides within the Third Panama East Brigade's jurisdiction, noting a drop from 14 cases in 2025 to one in 2026. The agency also reported an increase in arrests and security operations aimed at combating theft and improving regional stability.