# Drug trafficking and illicit trade in Panama

> Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/drug-trafficking-and-illicit-trade-in-panama
> Updated: 2026-11-04T05:46:58.000Z. Sources: 18. Developments: 2.

Panamanian authorities have conducted multiple operations targeting various forms of illicit trade. In late October, law enforcement carried out the ‘Panamá Norte Seguro 2’ operation, which involved raids in Chilibre, Caimitillo, Alcalde Díaz, and Las Cumbres. This operation led to the arrest of 19 individuals, including selective transport drivers, suspected of preparing and distributing drug-laced candies via home delivery. During these raids, officials seized illicit substances, ammunition, cash, and mobile phones.

Concurrently, the Ministry of Health reported that approximately 50% of tobacco products in Panama are illicit, posing public health risks and facilitating access for minors. While the exact scale of illegal vaping products is not yet measured, the Ministry of Health is collaborating with the Gorgas Memorial Institute for Health Studies to conduct market research and strengthen control measures.

In early November, the National Aeronaval Service (Senan) intercepted a low-profile vessel on the Pacific coast, south of Punta Burica. The operation resulted in the seizure of 2,560 drug packages and the arrest of three men.

## Claims

- Operation Petronium-Heracles resulted in 12 arrests in Galicia. (reported by 3 sources)
- A criminal organization in Galicia used cement powder to deceive a victim in a 255,000 euro transaction. (reported by 3 sources)
- The Guardia Civil dismantled a cocaine distribution organization in Lugo and Ponferrada. (reported by 2 sources)
- The Guardia Civil seized 12,000 kilograms of cocaine in Águilas, Spain. (reported by 1 source)
- 1,184 kilograms of cocaine were found in a fishing vessel in Santa Pola. (reported by 1 source)
- The Mexican Navy seized approximately 1,149 kilograms of a substance resembling cocaine off the coasts of Chiapas and Oaxaca. (reported by 1 source)
- Pablo Macalopu Cafferata was processed with preventive detention by a federal judge in San Isidro. (reported by 1 source)
- The PSA seized 222 kilograms of cocaine during raids in La Reja, Moreno. (reported by 1 source)

## Timeline

### 2026-11-04: Spain and Mexico authorities seize large cocaine shipments

Major drug enforcement operations in Spain, Mexico, and Argentina have led to the seizure of tons of cocaine and multiple arrests, including a high-profile drug leader in Argentina.

15 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/panamanian-authorities-seize-2560-drug-packages

### 2026-10-27: Panama authorities investigate drug-laced candy and illicit tobacco trade

Panamanian authorities arrested 19 people in an operation targeting drug-laced candy distribution, while health officials estimate 50% of tobacco products in the country are illicit.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/panama-authorities-investigate-drug-laced-candy-and-illicit-tobacco-trade

---
Cite as: Drug trafficking and illicit trade in Panama. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/drug-trafficking-and-illicit-trade-in-panama