Search continues for missing student Jafet González in Panama

Search operations continue in the Santa María River in Veraguas, Panama, to locate the body of Jafet González, a fourth-year software development student at the Universidad Tecnológica de Panamá. González, who also worked as a digital platform driver, was reported missing on August 11 after leaving work. His vehicle was discovered two days later.

Authorities are acting on information from a protected witness suggesting the young man was thrown into the river from a bridge connecting Tierra Hueca to Los Higos and Los Panamaes. The search has involved security forces, rescue organizations, divers, and volunteers, covering more than 15 kilometers downstream. Rescuers have noted risks due to the presence of large reptiles in the river.

Five individuals have been apprehended in connection with the case. The charges include intentional homicide, aggravated robbery, unlawful association, and deprivation of liberty. Specifically, the Specialized Adolescent Prosecutor's Office has requested charges against three teenagers aged 16 and 17, while the Homicide and Femicide Section has filed charges against two men aged 18 and 19.