A Panamanian court has ordered provisional detention for two teenagers accused of a violent attack on Argentine tourists. The suspects face charges of Aggravated robbery and attempted homicide. The decision came during a guarantee hearing on Friday.
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The two minors, aged 15 and 17, allegedly attacked a pair of Argentine visitors on Avenida Balboa. Security cameras captured the entire incident. The Public Ministry was represented by the First Superior Prosecutor’s Office for Adolescents during the hearing.
Third Suspect Apprehended in Separate Case
A third teenager was arrested on Friday by the Panama National Police. This suspect is linked to a separate aggravated robbery against an elderly couple on the same avenue. Police units located the minor in the Pueblo Nuevo township. He was riding in a vehicle with his mother at the time of the arrest.
Officials said the case remains under active investigation. Authorities have conducted several operational raids across different points in the capital. The teenager will now face a formal hearing before a judge. Police also recovered a cellphone belonging to one of the victims during a separate operation in the Terraplén sector.
“The evidence gathered, including video footage, directly implicates these individuals in a violent crime against foreign visitors,” a prosecutor stated during the hearing. “We are working diligently to ensure all those responsible face justice.” [Translated from Spanish]
Attack Shakes Tourist Area
The original attack occurred last weekend. Three individuals ambushed the elderly couple as they walked along Avenida Balboa. Local business security cameras recorded the assault. The area is a popular route for both tourists and residents walking along the Panama City waterfront.
Two other teenagers were apprehended on Thursday in connection with the same robbery. Police captured those suspects during an early morning operation in the Curundú sector. Investigators are now working to determine if additional people were involved in the planning or execution of the crime.
The Attempted homicide charges reflect the severity of the violence used against the victims. Prosecutors argued successfully for pretrial detention, citing the serious nature of the allegations and the risk of flight. The teenagers will remain in custody while the investigation continues.
Police operations have intensified in the Avenida Balboa corridor. Authorities want to send a clear message to criminals targeting visitors. The National Police have increased patrols in the area. Tourists are advised to remain vigilant when walking in the area, especially during evening hours.
The case highlights ongoing concerns about street crime in Panama City’s tourist zones. Prosecutors said the violent nature of the robbery warranted the serious charges. Court records show the investigation remains open and active. More arrests could follow as detectives analyze additional evidence from the scene.
