The Minister of Public Security, Frank Ábrego, stated that most homicides registered in the country are linked to disputes between gangs and drug trafficking activities. However, he assured that, despite a recent increase, the accumulated balance of the year still shows a reduction compared to the same period last year. Ábrego indicated that nearly 80% of homicides in Panama are related to conflicts between gangs, criminal bands, and disputes associated with drug trafficking. 'The vast majority of homicides, around 80%, are the result of fights between gangs, bands, and drug trafficking that is behind many of these incidents,' the minister noted. The official added that in most cases investigated by the authorities, a link to criminal structures eventually emerges. 'In many of these homicides, an association with some kind of gang or criminal group emerges,' he commented during his participation in the Sunday program 'Open Debate.' Decrease so far this year The head of Security explained that during January and February the country maintained a relatively stable behavior in terms of homicides, with a significant reduction compared to previous months. 'We had January and February quite stable. Nevertheless, he insisted that the balance for the first quarter remains favorable. 'In March we have seen an increase due to the activity of hitmen, but even so, we maintain about 12 fewer homicides in these three months of the year,' he specified. Cooperation with the United States Ábrego also referred to the historic cooperation between Panama and the U.S. in matters of security. According to his explanation, different Panamanian governments have allowed joint exercises, logistical support, and exchange of intelligence information. He indicated that currently a specialized team from the Southern Command is working with Panamanian authorities on cybersecurity issues linked to the operation of the Canal. 'Under our administration, there is a cybersecurity team from the Southern Command that collaborates in the protection of the software and computer management of the Panama Canal,' he explained. The minister also recalled that cooperation between the two countries has the backing of the Canal Neutrality Treaty, which contemplates collaboration mechanisms in security matters.
