Killings jump 20%, most not drug related

The first three months of 2010 showed a dramatic increase in the number of killings in Panama.
In the first quarter  217 murders were reported against 180 in the same period of 2009.

For those who take comfort in the belief that the majority of killings were drug trafficking  related executions El Siglo says:
“The government of President Ricardo Martinelli has sought to blame the increase on drug trafficking crimes. And, building on that argument, the fight against crime is reports combat actions of the air and naval forces  and its budgets for military equipment.  

 “But the fact is that those killed by executions related to drug trafficking activities are less than other assaults”

The investigation conducted by El Siglo on the victims of killings in March, showed that of the 73 people who lost their lives , 19 were for a possible argument between perpetrator and victim. many times, quarreling  over often trivial matters, like dirtying a neighboring courtyard,  a woman or coming to the defense of a relative.

The second possible cause of the March murders were gang-related cases totaling, 17. Sometimes, the deaths were linked to territorial fights, small amounts of drugs, rites of initiation or previous feuds between gangs.

The third, motive for murder was robbery, with 14 cases. Those related to drug trafficking came to only eight. Other killings were spousal abuse and one listed as “passion.”