Panama City officials plan to install approximately 500 new surveillance cameras across the capital this year. The initiative aims to strengthen public security and protect state property by integrating the cameras into a centralized national monitoring system.
This expansion responds to a noted increase in criminal activity, ranging from petty vandalism to organized crime. The project will significantly boost the municipal surveillance program, with footage shared directly with national police and security forces.
Mayor Mayer Mizrachi framed the project as a necessary response to a lack of visual oversight in many city sectors. He pointed to a recent incident of vandalism on the Amador Causeway as a prime example of the challenges the city faces.
“The goal is to install at least 500 surveillance cameras to enhance the Municipality’s video surveillance program and share it with the National Police and security agencies,” Mizrachi explained. [Translated from Spanish]
The immediate next step involves finalizing installation locations and timelines. Authorities have not yet released the specific points or dates for the camera rollout, stating planning is ongoing.
Integration with National Security Operations
The new cameras will feed directly into the National Operations Center (Ministry of Security). This integration is already functional, with the municipality linked as a user of the center’s system.
National Police Director Jaime Fernandez detailed the operational benefits of this link. He said it allows for municipal personnel to work within the operations center and provides police with critical, real-time information.
“The incorporation of new cameras will allow us to generate more data, increase operability, obtain evidence of criminal acts, and facilitate the identification and capture of those responsible,” Fernandez stated. [Translated from Spanish]
This data-driven approach is central to the strategy. Officials believe enhanced monitoring will lead to more efficient police work and stronger evidence for prosecutors.
Addressing a Documented Crime Trend
The security push is backed by concerning statistics. According to the Public Ministry (Panama), 2025 saw 15,799 reported theft cases nationwide.
Of that national total, 8,316 thefts occurred within Panama City. The capital also accounted for 2,587 of the country’s 4,899 robbery cases last year. These figures provided the impetus for the major technological investment.
City hall is now urging residents to formally report all criminal acts and vandalism through official channels. They stress that public cooperation is essential for holding perpetrators accountable and safeguarding community assets.
Authorities specifically encouraged victims of theft or robbery to file official reports. They argue that every report helps build a clearer picture for crime prevention and reinforces the need for projects like the camera network. The municipality hopes this combined technological and community-focused strategy will create a safer environment for everyone in the centro nacional.