Arrested for Embezzlement in Panama: Former Mayor of La Chorrera Tomás Velásquez

Tomás Velásquez left office after the 2024 elections, in which he sought re-election for a third consecutive term.  The Public Prosecutor’s Office reported the arrest of the former mayor of La Chorrera, Tomás Velásquez, as part of an investigation for alleged embezzlement to the detriment of the Municipality of La Chorrera, in the province of Panama Oeste.  The action was carried out through the so-called Operation Safe Haven, executed by the Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office in conjunction with the Directorate of Judicial Investigation (DIJ) of the National Police. 

According to the official statement, “in West Panama, the Public Ministry through its Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office with the DIJ of the National Police carried out Operation Safe Haven, arresting the former mayor of La Chorrera, Tomás Velásquez, and another former official, for embezzlement to the detriment of the Municipality of La Chorrera.”  In the same operation, another former official was also arrested, linked to the case investigating the alleged irregular handling of public funds. 

Velásquez left office after the 2024 elections, in which he sought reelection for a third consecutive term. Authorities have not detailed the amount of the alleged financial loss or the specific circumstances of the investigation, which remains in the preliminary stages.  The Public Prosecutor’s Office indicated that investigations are continuing to determine responsibilities within this case of alleged corruption in the municipal administration. 

The Public Prosecutor’s Office indicated that investigations are continuing to determine responsibilities within this case of alleged corruption in the municipal administration.