Panamanian authorities seize 2.3 tons of drugs in 48 hours
Panamanian authorities have successfully carried out three separate operations within a span of 48 hours, resulting in the seizure of approximately two tons of drugs, believed to be cocaine.
The initial seizure occurred in the central Pacific province of Los Santos, near Punta Mala. Law enforcement units intercepted a speedboat with two individuals aboard, confiscating around 1,550 kilograms of drugs, presumably cocaine.
The second operation took place at an anchorage in the Caribbean province of Colón. Agents discovered 40 drug packages concealed within refrigeration panels in a container originating from Guayaquil, Ecuador, and destined for Valencia, Spain.
The third incident also unfolded in Punta Mala, where the occupants of a high-speed boat began discarding bags into the water upon detecting the presence of Senan. The authorities managed to recover 754 packages of illegal substances.
During a press conference, Luis Rodríguez, the deputy commissioner responsible for the Senan naval command, announced that the combined seizures over the past 48 hours amounted to 2.3 tons of illegal drugs.
Rodríguez further highlighted that the Senan has apprehended a total of 108 individuals on charges of drug trafficking this year.
Authorities credit increased vigilance for success
The Senan attributed the success of the recent operations to increased vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement agencies. The agency also said that it is committed to continuing to combat drug trafficking in Panama.
The seizures are a significant blow to drug trafficking organizations operating in Panama. The drugs seized have an estimated street value of over $100 million.
The Senan's efforts to combat drug trafficking are part of a broader effort by the Panamanian government to reduce crime and violence in the country. (ILKHA)