A vessel carrying migrants sank in the Caribbean Sea off Panama’s northern coast on Saturday, resulting in one confirmed death. The Servicio Nacional Aeronaval (National Aeronaval Service of Panama) led rescue operations for the boat, which was traveling through the costa arriba region of Colón Province, Panama.
Authorities reported the incident occurred in the maritime sector between Playa Chiquita and Palmira. Preliminary information indicated 35 people were on board, including 33 migrants. Rescue teams managed to save 34 individuals, providing immediate medical attention on shore. The identity of the deceased person has not been released pending notification of family.
Security Forces Coordinate Rescue Response
The national aeronaval service confirmed the operation in a social media post on December 27. They stated their personnel were attending to a report of a possible shipwreck. The agency coordinated its response with the Panama Maritime Authority, utilizing both sea and air assets for the search and rescue mission, known as a SAR operation.
#SAR in #DEVELOPMENT | We are attending to a report of a possible shipwreck of a vessel in the Costa Arriba sector of Colón, in the maritime sector between Palmira and Playa Chiquita. These actions are carried out in coordination with @amp_panama. [Translated from Spanish]
This official statement outlined the initial emergency response. The Servicio Nacional Aeronaval is Panama’s primary force for maritime security and rescue operations. Their quick deployment to the remote area was critical for survivor recovery.
Reverse Migration Flow Presents Dangers
The tragedy highlights the perils of a reverse migration pattern currently observed in the region. Maritime authorities note an increasing flow of migrants, predominantly Venezuelans, attempting to return to their home country by boat. These often overcrowded and unseaworthy vessels travel from Panama to Colombia as the first leg of a dangerous journey home.
This route forms part of the complex movement within the Venezuelan diaspora. Individuals who previously crossed the Darien Gap into Panama are now seeking to return, driven by various economic and personal factors. The return voyage by sea is fraught with risks, including rough weather, unreliable vessels, and limited safety equipment.
Panama’s Nacional Aeronaval and border services have documented this trend in recent months. They continue to warn against using irregular maritime pathways due to the high probability of accidents. Saturday’s shipwreck underscores the lethal consequences of these journeys.
Investigations into the cause of the sinking are ongoing. The Servicio Nacional will examine the vessel’s condition and the circumstances leading to the disaster. Survivors are receiving support from Panamanian authorities and international humanitarian organizations present in the country.