Panamanian authorities arrested a Belgian citizen in Panama City on Friday, December 26, following an international manhunt. The arrest was executed on an active Interpol Red Notice issued by Belgian judicial officials.
The suspect is wanted by the French-speaking Tribunal of First Instance in Brussels. He faces serious allegations of involvement in transnational criminal activities.
International Cooperation Leads to Arrest
National Police officers captured the individual in the San Francisco district. The operation resulted from coordinated intelligence work and international police cooperation managed by Interpol Panama. Agents from the National Anti-Narcotics Directorate and the Linces Motorized Service provided tactical support during the apprehension.
Official sources confirmed the Red Notice was active at the time of the arrest. It was issued based on a formal request from Belgian authorities.
“The arrest of this individual is a clear result of effective international police coordination and demonstrates our commitment to combating transnational crime,” said a spokesperson for the National Police of Panama. [Translated from Spanish]
The Belgian national is now in custody awaiting extradition proceedings. Panamanian authorities will process the legal formalities required for his potential transfer to Belgium.
Charges Include Drug Trafficking and Money Laundering
Court documents from Belgium outline a range of serious charges. The suspect is accused of participating in a criminal organization, money laundering, and the importation, sale, and possession of illicit substances for commercial purposes.
These charges often indicate involvement in sophisticated organized crime networks. Panama’s geographic position makes it a strategic location for international law enforcement operations targeting such networks. This arrest follows other significant aprehendido este year targeting drug trafficking organizations in the region.
The case highlights the ongoing collaboration between Panamanian and European law enforcement agencies. Interpol’s notice system played a critical role in locating and detaining the fugitive.
Extradition processes are expected to begin shortly. The suspect will remain detained in Panama while judicial authorities from both nations coordinate the next legal steps.