Panama’s National Aeronaval Service (SENAN) intercepted a major drug shipment off the country’s Pacific coast this Sunday. The maritime interdiction operation resulted in the seizure of 1,311 packages of narcotics and the detention of two suspects near Puerto Escondido in Veraguas Province.
Officials reported that three high-speed boats were also confiscated during the mission. Authorities recovered one rifle from the abandoned vessels. The operation unfolded during a routine patrol when crews spotted three vessels clustered together and conducting suspicious cargo transfer maneuvers.
Chase Leads to Coastal Capture
The crews of the detected boats fled in different directions upon noticing the naval presence. During the pursuit, one vessel ran aground on the coastline. Its occupants abandoned it and escaped into the surrounding area. The other two boats, each carrying one person, were successfully intercepted and detained by the National Aeronaval Service (Panama) teams.
Coordination with the Veraguas Provincial Drug Prosecutor’s Office followed the operation for evidence processing and legal procedures. This seizure continues a pattern of intensified interdiction efforts along Panama’s strategic maritime routes.
“The operation was carried out during a patrol, in which three boats were detected together, performing suspicious cargo transfer maneuvers,” stated an official SENAN report. [Translated from Spanish]
This incident follows another significant drug bust just one day earlier. On Saturday, authorities announced the confiscation of a five-ton drug shipment near Bongo Beach on El Rey Island. That location is part of the Las Perlas Archipelago.
Surge in 2026 Interdictions
The back-to-back operations highlight a proactive start to the year for Panamanian security forces. According to SENAN data, these latest seizures contribute to a substantial total for early 2026. Officials confirm three major operations have netted 6,668 packages of illicit substances since January began.
Panama’s geographic position makes it a key transit zone for narcotics moving northward. The country’s servicio nacional aeronaval plays a critical role in regional security efforts. Their increased operational tempo demonstrates a focused response to maritime trafficking threats.
Investigations into the origins and intended destination of the Veraguas shipment are ongoing. The two apprehended individuals remain in custody facing charges. Analysts note that successful interdictions disrupt trafficking networks and seize profits from criminal organizations. Panama’s continued vigilance along its extensive coastline remains essential for both national and regional security.