President Mulino’s Bold Move: Announced to Combat Gang Violence in Panama
A decisive step towards restoring safety in San Miguelito and Colón amid rising crime concerns
President Mulino of Panama Press Conference from 29 August 2024
In a pivotal announcement on August 29, 2024, President José Raúl Mulino took decisive action to address the alarming rise in homicides and drug-related incidents affecting the San Miguelito area of Panama City and the province of Colón. The government is enforcing curfews from 9:00 PM to 6:00 AM, aiming to restore peace in regions grappling with gang violence. While the exact dates for implementation are yet to be disclosed, the urgency of the situation has led to swift government responses.
In a recent press conference, President Mulino addressed citizens’ concerns about rampant crime. “The gangs are terrorizing the country—the thefts, the violence, the murders. We don’t feel safe in the streets. It’s time to put a stop to all of this,” one concerned citizen said during the session. His call for action resonates with many who feel vulnerable in their neighborhoods.
To regain control of these troubled territories, President Mulino is collaborating closely with the Minister of Security and heads of various security agencies, particularly focusing on the National Police. "We are urgently seeking a solution to regain control of the national territory," he emphasized, highlighting the severity of the crisis.
The curfew, he explained, is just one part of a broader strategy to tackle the escalating gang-related issues that have increasingly intertwined with drug trafficking. Drawing on his past experience as Minister of Security, he noted how drug seizures have skyrocketed from rare occurrences to near-daily events today.
To further bolster safety efforts, President Mulino has instructed the National Aeronaval Service (SENAN) to intensify coastal patrols and manage airport security across Panama. The airports, particularly Tocumen International Airport, will now see enhanced measures aimed at preventing drug trafficking and maintaining security.
In addition to airport measures, President Mulino has called upon customs officials to implement stricter controls at entry points across the nation. Modern technologies like scanners are being employed effectively to enhance border security, ensuring that no port can deny access to security forces—a vital component in protecting Panamanian sovereignty.
But it’s not just about tackling organized crime; President Mulino acknowledged that everyday crime affects average citizens profoundly. “Let’s call it what it is,” he stated, referencing incidents like petty thefts that inevitably rise as cities grow. He emphasized that urban developments must consider public safety by incorporating National Police stations within their plans.
Despite these challenges, there is a silver lining as efforts to communicate transparency in law enforcement practices gain momentum. “Soon,” he urged, “check the websites of the Ministry of Security and SENAFRONT for statistics.” By providing public access to arrest records and crime statistics, citizens can stay informed about ongoing efforts against crime.
These measures reflect a concerted effort by President Mulino's administration to ensure public safety while reasserting government authority over areas plagued by violence and disorder.
The people of Panama are undoubtedly looking for reassurance amid uncertainty—a promise that their streets will be safer and their communities more secure. The government's commitment is apparent as they implement strategies mirroring successful international examples like El Salvador's crackdown on gang violence.
As Panama stands at this critical juncture, it becomes essential for citizens to stay vigilant and proactive about their safety while supporting governmental efforts designed to reclaim public spaces from criminal elements. The fight against organized crime is far from easy; however, through these necessary steps towards restoring order and trust, there’s hope for a brighter future for all Panamanians.
Kudos to President Mulino for taking drastic measures to enforce the law and control gangs in areas like Colón and San Miguelito! This is the beginning of cleaning up crime. Surely, it follows similar steps El Salvador took to reduce gang violence!
In Conclusion
President José Raúl Mulino's administration is dedicated to facing down the challenges posed by gangs head-on. His bold strategies could serve as a benchmark for other nations grappling with similar issues—showing that through decisive action and community cooperation, crime can be addressed effectively and comprehensively.
