Joint operations in the Darién: Colombia and Panama combat drug trafficking at the border
In the dense Darién jungle, specifically near the Alto Limón Binational Post, the authorities of Colombia and Panama maintain a constant fight against drug trafficking. In this border area, approximately 500 hectares of coca crops have been identified located in Colombian territory, which are the subject of intense eradication efforts by the public force.
The strategy seeks to curb the dominance of the Gulf Clan, the most powerful criminal organization in Colombia, which not only controls drug trafficking but also engages in illegal mining, extortion, and migrant smuggling in the region.
We are trying to combat them with all our force strength and mechanisms, carrying out joint operations with the forces of Panama, although it is an extremely complex challenge due to the terrain conditions.
Second Lieutenant Miguel Vega, Anti-Narcotics Directorate of the National Police of Colombia
Strategic coordination for eradication
The Alto Limón Binational Post is a key point among the three existing ones along the 266 kilometers of jungle border. There, 19 Colombian officials operate in coordination with agents from Panama’s National Border Service (Senafront). The eradication logistics involve the use of Black Hawk helicopters to transport crews of up to 20 personnel, who carry out the destruction of crops in hard-to-reach areas.
Security is the fundamental axis of these missions. While Colombian teams carry out the eradication, Panamanian forces provide tactical coverage to prevent attacks by armed groups operating in the area that respond to the interests of the Clan del Golfo.
Shielding against criminal expansion
One of the main objectives of the alliance between both countries is to prevent Colombian criminal groups from moving their operations into Panamanian territory. Authorities maintain constant monitoring to deter any attempt at incursion.
- Clan del Golfo control: The organization maintains a strong presence in the Darien, which necessitates constant binational surveillance.
- Preventive actions: Panama is reinforcing its security measures due to fears that armed groups may seek new exit routes following the pressure exerted in Colombia.
- Regional cooperation: The synergy between security forces seeks to ensure that criminals do not find refuge or escape routes across the border.
Despite the geographical challenges and the dangerous nature of the environment, the collaboration between Colombia and Panama remains a bulwark for regional security, focusing on the dismantling of criminal structures that threaten stability at the border.
