This year, Panamanian authorities have seized large drug shipments. For instance, on January 17, 5,356 packages of drugs were intercepted from a vessel in one of the Pearl Islands Archipelago islands in the Pacific Ocean. The National Air and Naval Service (Senan) highlighted that with this seizure, the total amount of illicit substances seized this year has exceeded 16.8 tons through 14 anti-drug operations under the 'Firmness Plan' and 'Protective Shield' operation to 'strengthen security and confront international drug trafficking.' Each drug package weighs at least one kilogram, and the most frequently seized illicit substance in Panama is cocaine. According to Public Ministry statistics, Panama seized 129 tons of drugs and 47.8 tons of chemical precursors in 2025. On Monday, Panama's National Aeronaval Service (Senan) reported the seizure of 1,777 packages of suspected drugs at a Panamanian port terminal destined for the United Kingdom. The discovery occurred at a terminal in the Caribbean region, in the province of Colón, when agents identified 'inconsistencies that prompted a more detailed inspection.' The official statement indicates that 'both containers showed alterations to their security seals.' It also details that the shipment's traceability indicates it 'left Guayaquil, Ecuador,' and its 'final destination was the London Gateway Port in the United Kingdom.'
