Among those apprehended during nine search and raid operations, carried out by the National Police and the Public Ministry in the provinces of Colón, Panamá, and Panamá Oeste, are 3 government officials, a former Customs official, and civilians. They also actively facilitated the entry, transport, and distribution of the merchandise. The preliminary investigation of this case details that the members of this organization took advantage of their positions to evade legal and customs controls. Nine individuals, identified as members of a criminal network dedicated to tobacco smuggling from the Colón Free Trade Zone to the border with Costa Rica (Canoas Pass), were apprehended as part of Operation North Zone. Also seized were over 12 thousand dollars, an illegal firearm, a high-end vehicle, a four-wheeler, and other evidence. It was detailed that today 7 of the suspects were captured, while the other two were located last year during the investigative phase of the case, when 4.2 million dollars were seized during several operations. Several residences in exclusive areas of the capital city, where the linked officials reside, were located today.
Tobacco Smuggling Network Arrested in Panama
Panamanian police have arrested nine people, including officials, on suspicion of tobacco smuggling. During 'Operation North Zone', large sums of money, weapons, and vehicles were seized. The investigation revealed that the culprits used their positions to bypass customs controls.
