Panama's National Police Re-Open Inter American Highway - One Death Reported.
From DON WINNER for Panama-Guide.com - Starting at 6:15 am this morning the riot control units of the National Police of Panama moved in to break up the protesting Indians and to clear the Inter American Highway. As of right now the highway has been completely reopened, and traffic is flowing. One person, Geronimo Montesuma, was killed in the action by police. He was taken to the medical clinic in San Felix, but apparently he was already dead. There were several others who were injured, as well as injuries among the police officers caused by rocks thrown by the protesters. The police executed simultaneous operations to reopen several roads that had been blocked. The police used tear gas and bird shot against the protesters. The person who died had a wound in the left leg, and he presumable bled to death.
The situation remains tense. There are still police officers deployed throughout the entire area. The National Border Service SENAFRONT units were used as backup and support, and were assigned to secure individual points such as airports, etc. SINAPROC units are being used to clear the roadway of trees, debris, sheets of metal, large rocks, etc. Right now, the roadway is open. Several people have been arrested. Cellular telephone service is still out in the area.
Till Next Time. Pura Vida