Large Criminal Activity
Surge in Homicides in Panama: Gangs and Drug Rip-Offs Along With Hired Killings
Rising wave of homicides linked to gang warfare, drug rip-offs, and contract killings across multiple provinces in Panama.
Panama has experienced a worrying surge in homicides during March 2026, with many cases attributed to violent clashes between large criminal gangs and drug-related disputes. The National Police have acknowledged that the increase stems from an all-out war between two major criminal groups that have expanded their operations into drug trafficking and have intensified recruitment efforts. These disputes have led to numerous shootings, including high-profile murders such as the killing of a 37-year-old lawyer in Costa del Este, a murder in Don Bosco, and other killings in Chitré and Chepo. SIEC statistics indicate that most of this violence is concentrated in the provinces of Panama, Colón, and Panama Oeste, where gang activity and micro-trafficking are prevalent. The wave of contract killings has also become a key concern, with security officials highlighting a growing professionalization of criminal activity in the country.
- Status
- active
- Location
- Panama (provinces of Panama, Colón, Panama Oeste, Herrera)
- Date added
- 2026-03-26 02:46 UTC
- Last updated
- 2026-03-26 02:46 UTC
- Source
- https://newsroompanama.com
- Connected threats
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- Not Available