The National Police of Panama has launched a massive security operation in San Miguelito. More than 500 officers are now hitting the streets. The deployment began this week as part of a comprehensive strategy to fight crime.
Public Security Minister Frank Ábrego made the announcement alongside National Police Director Jaime Fernández and Aeronaval Service Director Luis De Gracia. The operation targets areas with the highest crime rates in the district. Officials call it a coordinated push to restore public safety.
Community Collaboration and Crime Prevention
Minister Ábrego directly addressed residents during the announcement. He urged them to play an active role in keeping their neighborhoods safe. “We ask the community to collaborate by reporting crimes, taking preventive measures in their homes, and advising their families that crime does not pay,” Ábrego said. [Translated from Spanish]
“We ask the community to collaborate by reporting crimes, taking preventive measures in their homes, and advising their families that crime does not pay.”
The minister emphasized that similar operations are running in Colón, parts of the capital, 24 de Diciembre, Los Andes, Santiago, and Chiriquí. This is not a one-off effort. Authorities describe it as a sustained push across multiple regions.
Crime statistics show some progress in northern San Miguelito. “We have recorded 45 homicides so far this year in San Miguelito, which is favorable,” Ábrego noted. He thanked local governments and the community for their sacrifices, including curfews and mobility restrictions in two corregimientos.
Focused Territorial Control Strategy
The operation falls under the Focused Territorial Control program. Officers are deploying to strategic points identified as high-crime zones. The plan includes patrols in conflict-heavy areas, vehicle checkpoints, and coordinated preventive actions between security forces.
Mayor Irma Hernández called this a continuation of existing measures. “We had mobility restrictions. We have had weapons-for-food exchanges. We continue with many prevention operations involving culture, art, and sports, especially during Black Ethnic Month,” Hernández said. “Now we reinforce with greater police presence on our streets and sidewalks.” [Translated from Spanish]
The National Police will maintain a visible presence in residential areas. Officers will conduct random checks and respond to community reports. Authorities say the goal is to disrupt criminal networks and prevent violence before it starts.
San Miguelito has struggled with gang activity and drug-related crime for years. The district sits just north of Panama City and houses over 300,000 residents. Its dense population and complex urban layout have made policing difficult.
Officials promise the deployment will last as long as necessary. They are tracking results daily. The operation also includes social programs aimed at giving young people alternatives to crime.
Residents can expect to see more patrols during peak hours. Police will focus on public transportation hubs and commercial areas. The ministry has not set an end date for the operation.