Police and Community Meeting Update

Those of us that choose to move our lives to Panama all knew well in advance, that we may become a target for crime here.  The fact that we have what it takes to move to this country,  puts us in a higher economical category than most locals, and that puts us at risk. So instead of sitting around waiting to become victimized, let’s all become part of the solution and not the problem.   That was the message behind the second organized safety meeting held at La Ruina on Friday, April 19, 2013.  Organized by former law enforcement officials Jim Rizik and Perry McMullin the meeting was sadly lacking in local authorities.  Jim sent out letters inviting the Governor of Panama to attend along with the Ministry of Security and the Mayor of Panama City who owns property in this area.  Neither made an appearance but rumor had it that there was an important meeting today in Penonome too, so perhaps they were busy with that?  

Several members of the police department were in attendance to present updates on past crimes against expats, although they had little new information to share.  In regards to the crimes at Rancho Los Toros one police officer said, “ the investigation is still underway and arrests are about to be made any day.” And as for the most recent home invasion in San Jose, the judicial police are investigating the case which is still pending.

At the last meeting the police commissioner gave his promise that more patrol cars would soon be in circulation protecting the area.  This time it was announced that the cars have been purchased although they’re not on the road yet.  

One promising new update that was announced is that the police departments here in Panama have begun the monumental task of teaching their officers to speak English.  The first class is underway right now and classes will be ongoing with small groups being taught in each one.  And just like our complaint of the locals speaking Spanish too fast, the officers ask that we speak to them slowly in English until they become more proficient.

David, owner of Loco’s Backyard Grill presented a few suggestions to the group.  “Know how to describe where you live along with a description of your house in Spanish.”  He also suggested making your house stand out with some distinguishing characteristics making it easy for first responders to find, should you ever need them.  “Maybe keep a cheat sheet next to the phone with key words to describe the crime or any injuries in Spanish.”  Someone also suggested to the police that a list of keywords in English be given to each dispatcher so they can cross reference words necessary to send out help.

Frank, the owner of La Ruina told the crowd that it’s not only expats being targeted for crime.  “A local loan shark sits in a parked car outside of El Rey in Coronado.  He offers to lend money to workers on payday when they’re check isn’t enough to pay the bills.”  Frank went on to say that this man was once held at gunpoint while sitting in his car until he surrendered his cash.  “Criminals even robbed one of the lottery ladies that sits in front of stores selling tickets,” he said.  “So we’re not the only ones being victimized.”

And once again a quick review of the basic steps should you become the victim of a crime.  First call the police who will show up and secure the area, making sure there are no criminals present.  Next, file a report with the DIJ, the criminal investigative bureau of Panama.  If you’re not fluent in Spanish take along a translator.  Be persistent and follow up with the DIJ every other day.  If you’ve received injuries head to a nearby hospital where the doctor on call must also file a report.  Then you must hire a local attorney to represent you should the case go to court.  If you’re injured the DIJ will also send you to see their doctor who is legally contracted with them.

The Vecino Vigilantes are selling their official signs for $25 and $50, depending on size to anyone that would like to display one on their home or property.  According to Perry displaying one of these signs says, “I have taken the time and prepared enough so that I’m not going to be your victim.” “We all need to become part of the community and to get rid of that us and them mentality,” he said.  

Crime is not something new and has been around since the dawn of time.  We need to report it when it happens and understand that police everywhere are over worked, under trained, not appreciated and need our help to catch the criminals.  The next meeting on personal safety is scheduled for later this month along with a fire safety class in the near future.  We all need to take a proactive approach against crime and send out a strong message that we’re not allowing you to take us down.  

If you’d like to get on the email list for meeting notifications or need more information contact Jim at jwr2001@msn.com