Tragedy in Veraguas: A five-year-old child drowned in the Santa María River on Monday afternoon. The incident occurred in the area known as the IDAAN water intake in the province of Veraguas, causing deep sorrow and consternation among his relatives. The Veraguas SINAPROC (Civil Protection System) confirmed the unfortunate event and its teams responded to the scene after receiving an alert from the child's relatives. According to preliminary reports, the little boy was with his family enjoying a bath in the Santa María River when, at an unspecified moment, they noticed his absence. Despite the efforts made, his death was confirmed at the site, causing scenes of deep grief among his loved ones. Authorities reiterated that they had previously issued warnings about risks in rivers and recreational areas, especially during Carnival festivities when the number of bathers increases. They also pointed out that several of these points do not have permanent lifeguards. It should be noted that the Santa María River has recently experienced strong rises in water levels and currents, which increases its danger due to unpredictable currents and variations in depth. Security agencies made an urgent call to the population to take extreme precautions, especially with minors, and to avoid entering rivers that have had significant increases in their flow. This tragic event has left a Veraguas family in mourning and has once again raised the alarm about the importance of constant vigilance and respect for authorities' recommendations during the festive season and the rainy season in the central mountain range.
