Five individuals were apprehended during search and seizure operations conducted by the National Border Service in the district of Chepo, sector of Tanara, as part of the Plan Firmeza and Operation "Steel Shield Phase 2". The operation was carried out by Anti-Narcotics units and the Panama East Brigade, in coordination with the Specialized Prosecutor's Office for Drug-Related Crimes. During the operation, 62 reed cuts and several plastic bags with white powder and dry herb, presumably illicit substances, a grinder with plant residue were seized. Also confiscated were 83 .22 caliber cartridges, two 9mm cartridges, cell phones, a digital scale, and various materials for packaging and distributing drugs. Other evidence includes 10,080 cigarettes of a certain brand, 24 rolling papers, and 200 lighters. The apprehended individuals and the evidence were handed over to the Public Ministry for the corresponding proceedings.
