The highest number of complaints against adolescents were filed in the capital area (1,017), Chiriquí (645), West Panama (584), Bocas del Toro (353), the district of San Miguelito (301), and Colón (230). The participation of minors in criminal acts continues to alarm the authorities; figures from the Public Ministry (MP) reveal that, until October, 3,824 complaints have been filed against individuals not exceeding 18 years of age, an increase of over 400 accusations compared to last month, when 3,357 were registered. Crimes against freedom and sexual integrity show a notable and concerning incidence in this age group with 1,144 accusations, as was the case in September. They recommend that parents pay more attention to the actions and company of their children to prevent their involvement in criminal activities. In these last two areas, the security forces have reinforced their operations to reduce crime rates and manipulation of vulnerable minors.
It should be noted that the majority of complaints are for crimes against economic assets (531), life and personal integrity (480), collective security (463), and the legal order of family and civil status (226). Crimes against freedom, public administration, public faith, the administration of justice, the legal security of electronic media, the honor of the natural person, the environment, and territorial and economic order are found with less frequency.
