PANAMA CITY, PANAMA – The Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office, in a joint operation with the National Police Intelligence Directorate, apprehended four individuals on October 23 for alleged crimes against public faith involving the national tax system. The early morning raids, codenamed “E-Tax 2.0,” targeted locations across Panama’s east, west, and central districts as part of an investigation into the irregular recognition of tax credits.
The operation led to the arrest of two former government officials and two private citizens. They are implicated in a scheme involving the creation of fraudulent tax credit resolutions within the E-Tax 2.0 platform, according to official statements. The investigation began on April 27, 2023, following a formal complaint filed by Panama’s General Directorate of Revenue (DGI).
Details of the E-Tax 2.0 Fraud Scheme
Authorities allege the investigation centers on the creation of resolutions within the E-Tax system that improperly authorized tax credits for the purported purchase and installation of fiscal equipment. The former officials are accused of generating fictitious tax credits, which were then transferred to an intermediary company.
According to the investigation, the former officials had generated fictitious tax credits, which were then transferred to an intermediary company and subsequently to an insurance company, which made the payment for the assignment of said credits. [Translated from Spanish]
Following the transfer, these credits were allegedly ceded to an insurance company that made payments for them. Prosecutors also revealed that one of the individuals involved presented himself as a lawyer in the credit assignment process despite lacking the professional qualifications to practice law.
Coordinated Law Enforcement Operation
The operation demonstrates increased collaboration between Panama’s judicial and police authorities in combating white-collar crime. The Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office worked directly with the National Police Intelligence Directorate to execute simultaneous raids, gathering evidence to support the case.
The case highlights ongoing challenges within Panama’s revenue collection system and the government’s stated commitment to addressing fiscal fraud. The DGI’s active role in initiating the complaint underscores institutional efforts to identify and report internal vulnerabilities.
As the investigation continues, authorities are analyzing the evidence seized during the raids. The four apprehended individuals are expected to face formal charges related to crimes against public faith, with the potential for additional charges as the Public Ministry’s probe expands.