Schools in Argentina and Panama targeted by theft and vandalism

Educational institutions in Argentina and Panama have been targeted by theft and vandalism, causing significant disruptions and financial losses.

In Argentina, Escuela N° 49 Dr. Agustín Arayano in the Las Vegas neighborhood faced an insecurity incident where thieves broke into at least three classrooms. The perpetrators stole a large quantity of cables and several space heaters, causing extensive damage to the facilities. The destruction forced authorities to suspend classes for over 500 students while police and forensic experts conducted investigations.

In Panama, the Centro Educativo Monte Oscuro in Capira suffered vandalism to its electrical network. Preliminary estimates place the economic losses at over $50,000. Thieves destroyed inspection manholes to steal meters of electrical wiring and equipment from the control panel. The theft also included the loss of livestock. The resulting power outage has put approximately 1,500 laying hens at risk of suffocation due to the failure of ventilation fans. The school's director noted a lack of security personnel and criticized the Ministry of Education for rejecting a $4,000 video surveillance project.