Environmental groups in Panama have reported unprecedented pressure linked to their activities. The organizations Centro de Incidencia Ambiental (CIAM) and ADOPTA Bosque stated that the developer of the Puerto Barú project and the US investment firm Ocean Pacific Financial Service have obtained the preventive seizure of their bank accounts and assets.
According to activists, this civil lawsuit aims to silence them and stop the criticism of the construction's environmental consequences. Representatives emphasized they are not seeking to cancel the project entirely, but to relocate it. They argue the current location threatens the David mangroves and local biodiversity.
Activists note their claims are based on scientific studies and expert opinions. Environmentalists stress the legal measures are precautionary and not a final court ruling. Previously, they raised concerns about changes in ocean currents, impacts on species reproduction, and the effects of dredging.
“This time, through a civil process of preventive seizure of bank accounts and assets, they are trying to silence our organizations in the work of defending the right to a healthy environment,” spokespeople said during a press conference.
