During the Carnival festivities of 2025 in Panama, numerous traffic accidents and security operations have been recorded in entertainment areas, despite the efforts of the authorities.
One of the most tragic accidents occurred on Friday, February 28, when a young man lost his life after being run over on the Inter-American highway in Bejuco de Chame. Additionally, on Saturday, March 1, 130 traffic accidents were reported, leaving 35 injured and four people deceased in different areas, including Darién, West Panama, and Omar Torrijos avenue in the capital.
The number of accidents continued to rise on Sunday, March 2, with a total of 151 accidents, 39 injured, and two fatalities. Traffic authorities imposed a total of 2,000 violations on drivers during the festive days, highlighting speeding, inadequate vehicle lights, and driving under the influence of alcohol.
Moreover, operations were carried out in the most crowded areas, resulting in several arrests, including individuals with pending court orders, driving bans, warrants, restrictions on leaving the province, minors detained, and arrests for possession of illicit substances on the Cinta Costera.
The massive movement of vehicles into the interior of the country exceeded figures from previous years, reaching 91,809 between Friday, February 28, and Saturday, March 1, which caused an increase in vehicular traffic. In light of this situation, the Land Traffic and Transportation Authority (ATTT) activated a security plan that included lane investments at strategic points, deployment of inspectors and police units, as well as the installation of checkpoints and capacity monitoring on various routes.
Authorities have reiterated the importance of caution and adherence to traffic rules to prevent more tragedies during the ongoing Carnival festivities nationwide.
