The University of Panama has condemned the aggression and repression suffered by students, faculty, and administrative staff by the National Police. The incidents occurred last Friday, January 31, and have generated great concern in the university community.
The rector of the university, Dr. Eduardo Flores Castro, explained that the clashes between students and police officers resulted in acts of violence. He also reported raids on the residences of at least four university students, as well as the detention of two young individuals, some of whom are student leaders.
Flores Castro stated that a peaceful demonstration of approximately 50 people ended violently. The possibility of filing complaints with the Public Ministry against the National Police for these events is being evaluated.
Regarding the incident, the rector described a altercation in which a police officer had an exchange with students that resulted in assaults. He noted that the officer was hospitalized after being hit, but videos identified the assaulted person as a student. When defended by her female peers, a larger intervention occurred.
For his part, Gilberto Marulanda, defender of university rights, condemned the events and announced the possibility of filing a complaint with the National Prosecutor's Office. He demanded the cessation of searches and respect for the right to peaceful protest.
José Álvaro, president of the Association of Professors of the University of Panama (APUDEP), expressed his condemnation of the events and rejected the National Police's claims about the university. He stressed that violence against a student and police harassment require the repudiation of the academic community and Panamanian society, rejecting any accusations that the university is a center of criminals.
