23 Inmates Remain at Large Following the Mass Escape at Panama’s La Joyita Prison: A Search is Underway
Following the mass escape of 195 inmates from La Joyita Penitentiary Center on the morning of Saturday, June 6, authorities conducted a search to locate and remove prohibited items that could pose a risk to security and order within the facility. So far, authorities have not reported whether prohibited items were seized during the search, nor have they specified the number of possible findings. Official reports confirm that following a mass prison break and riot at Panama’s La Joyita Prison, authorities are still actively searching for 23 inmates. The breakout occurred on June 1, 2026, when 195 prisoners escaped during a coordinated riot, though the vast majority have since been recaptured.
Key Details on the Incident:
- The Escape: The mass evasion happened during pavilion reorganization and planned transfers of gang leaders. It escalated into an active revolt where inmates destroyed security cameras and breached perimeters.
- Casualties: The violence and unrest resulted in 3 inmate deaths and injuries to multiple prisoners and police officers.
- Search Operations: A massive deployment of over 1,200 security personnel, including the National Police, SENAFRONT, and SENAN, was dispatched to apprehend the escapees.
- Current Status: More than 170 individuals have been captured and returned to custody. Special law enforcement units are continuing ground and air operations, including checkpoints around Pacora and the surrounding Panama province, to locate the remaining 23 fugitives.
