Panama closed 2025 with a total of 593 homicides, an increase of 2% compared to 2024, according to preliminary data from the Public Ministry, revealed on January 15. The main concentration of violence was observed in the province of Panama and in the district of San Miguelito. The province of Panama topped the list with 357 homicides, of which 100 occurred in San Miguelito. This confirms a pattern of violence concentrated in key areas of the country. In total, 555 male victims and 36 female victims were recorded during the year, showing that lethal violence disproportionately affects the male population. One of the most worrying data points is that the province of Panama recorded the largest absolute increase in homicides, rising from 215 cases in 2024 to 257 in 2025, representing a 20% increase. Official data indicate that 87% of homicides were committed with firearms, consolidating this type of weapon as the main means used in violent crimes. Furthermore, the main victims were young people between 18 and 34 years old, a segment of the population particularly exposed to criminal violence.
