Panama, like everywhere, does have some crime, but it is usually petty theft. Using registered apps or hotel-requested taxis is safer than hailing unmarked street taxis. Petty Crime: Be cautious in crowded areas, on public transport, and near transport hubs. Safety Precautions: Avoid wearing flashy jewelry, walking alone in unfamiliar areas at night, and keep your valuables out of sight. Health: Tap water in Panama City is generally safe to drink. Regional Safety: While Panama City is generally safe, avoid traveling to the Darien Gap (near the Colombian border) due to the presence of criminals and drug trafficking. Use the same due diligence and common sense that you would in any setting worldwide, and you will be fine. Crime in Curundú Pictured Above: Victim Arrives at Hospital without Vital Signs Panama – A man was murdered late Thursday afternoon in the Santa Cruz sector, located in the Curundú district. Panama City is generally considered a safe place to live and is a popular hub for expats, offering a modern, cosmopolitan lifestyle with a lower cost of living. Crime rates are higher in the city of Colón, so exercise caution there. The body was on the side of the road, so it must be investigated whether the man was killed at the scene or left there already dead. Units from the National Police and the Public Ministry, after receiving the alert call, arrived in the area to begin the investigation of the case, which adds to the wave of crimes registered this week in the capital city due to an alleged internal break between criminal groups. Safety varies by neighborhood, with secure areas including Punta Pacifica, San Francisco, and Marbella. Key Safety Information: Safe Areas to Live: Popular expat neighborhoods like Punta Pacifica, San Francisco, Marbella, and Obarrio are considered safe and secure. Areas to Avoid: Exercise caution or avoid areas such as Chilibre, Curundú, El Chorrillo, Santa Ana, and parts of San Miguelito. Transportation: Uber is highly recommended as a safe, affordable, and reliable option. As a rule, Panamanians don’t like confrontation. Preliminary information details that, apparently, there was an exchange of gunfire in the area of buildings located in Santa Cruz, in the middle of which the victim was shot. Body Found on Forestal Road Chilibre Forensic experts from the Imelfcf are collecting evidence at the scene as pictured above. While violent crime is relatively low, petty theft (pickpocketing, bag snatching) occurs, particularly in crowded areas. According to the authorities, the evaluation is part of an international cooperation and is carried out voluntarily, in conjunction with the Ministry of Public Works (MOP) and other Panamanian entities. The body of a man, whose identity is currently unknown, was found on Friday morning at the entrance to the Forestal road, in the Chilibre district.
