The operation was accompanied by the Environmental Prosecutor's Office, which ordered the arrests after confirming illicit activity at a clandestine landfill located in Villa Cárdenas. Authorities conducted an operation at various points in areas adjacent to the Cerro Patacón sanitary landfill, specifically in Villa Cárdenas and Kuna Nega, resulting in the detention of two dump trucks and the apprehension of five individuals caught while illegally burning and disposing of waste. MiAMBIITE reiterates its call to the public to report and provide evidence such as videos, photographs, or exact locations to strengthen investigations and continue with actions that allow for the prevention of environmental damage in this critical area of the country. This intervention is part of the permanent surveillance maintained by MiAmbiente together with other institutions to contain activities that pose a risk to public health and increase air pollution in the sector. José Delgado, head of the Environmental Risks Department of MiAmbiente, reported that during the tour, two recycling plants were inspected, verifying their documentation, permits, and the waste management they carry out, in addition to reviewing clandestine disposal points that impact the Cerro Patacón environment. Complaints can be made through 311 or through the Ministry's official social media accounts: @miambientepma. The institution reminds that waste burning generates toxic gases, increases the risk of fires, deteriorates air quality, and especially affects people with respiratory diseases, allergies, or asthma, as well as communities located in the vicinity.
Panamanian Authorities Detain Five for Illegal Waste Burning
In Panama, an operation by authorities and the Environmental Prosecutor's Office resulted in the detention of five people and two dump trucks for illegally burning and disposing of waste at a clandestine landfill in Villa Cárdenas. The Ministry of the Environment calls on citizens to report such incidents.
