Panamanian authorities seized a significant cache of prohibited items during security operations at the Panama City Carnival festival this week. The confiscations occurred at the entrance points to the Cinta Costera venue, where large crowds gathered for the final celebrations on Tuesday. Officials stated the goal was to prevent potential weapons from entering the crowded event space.
National Police Commissioner Luis García detailed the seized objects. The list included metal cups, ballpoint pens, nail clippers, pliers, and even lipstick tubes with metallic tips. While some items appear mundane, police emphasized they could be repurposed as dangerous weapons in a crowd. All confiscated materials will be turned over to municipal compliance judges for destruction.
“These objects are not permitted within the festival perimeter,” Commissioner García said. [Translated from Spanish] “We advise those planning to attend to avoid carrying any items that could pose a risk to public safety.”
The security operation is notably strict. Organizers established only three access points to the coastal strip. A single one of those gates processed more than 21,000 entrants on Monday alone. Authorities anticipated an equal or greater turnout for Tuesday’s closing events, justifying the intensive screening process.
Arrests and Identity Checks Accompany Seizures
Beyond the item confiscations, police made 113 arrests related to outstanding warrants during the Carnival period. Commissioner García confirmed three of those apprehensions happened recently. The pending cases involved crimes against the economic order, economic property, and family order, among other charges.
Identity verification forms a core part of the security protocol. Entry requires a physical national ID card. Officials do not accept social security cards or photographs of identification displayed on a mobile phone. The National Police of Panama also deployed specialized units, including officers focused on children and adolescents.
Screenings are conducted on all attendees regardless of gender or age. This comprehensive approach aims to leave no security gaps. The massive festival on the cinta costera is a major annual draw, creating a complex challenge for law enforcement.
Police resources are concentrated on ensuring a safe environment for the thousands of families present. The focus remains squarely on prevention and control to avoid any serious incidents during the celebrations. Officials reiterated their commitment as the capital’s premier festival reached its climax.