Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino launched harsh criticisms against the justice system that frees criminals while wearing down the agents who risk their lives facing organized crime in the country's streets, borders, seas, and skies. During the graduation of 1,389 new members of the Public Force, Mulino recalled what he said on January 2nd before the National Assembly. He stated that this model has failed and that Panama needs a justice system that is less lenient with those who harm the country. In his speech, he also addressed the regional outlook. Citing UN figures, he indicated that cocaine production reached 3,708 tons, a 34% increase from 2022. The president warned that the practice of criminalizing the offender has become a tool for criminal organizations in Latin America. He pointed to cases of dangerous drug traffickers and gang members who, even while in prison, receive lenient measures and continue to operate. The National Police incorporated 727, the National Aeronaval Service added 416, Senafront graduated 152 after six months of training, and 91 inspectors from the National Migration Service were added. In closing, Mulino was direct: He asked them to honor the uniform, put Panama first, and not yield to the temptation of easy money. 'If you are not willing to carry out that mission, it's better to leave the uniform,' he warned, making it clear that the country's security depends on a firm and honest Public Force. He recognized initial advances in his administration but insisted that money laundering continues to be a key threat. In terms of migration, he highlighted concrete results.
