Mining law protests prompt US Embassy alert

With  riot police assembling and Indigenous protestors promising to block the Trans America highway indefinitely, the U.S. Embassy in Panama City has issued an alert to its  citizens.

It warns of possible disruptions and blockings along the Pan-American Highway near the San Felix area in Chiriqui where  hundreds of Ngobe Bugle are protesting  mining laws.  Anti-riot police are stationed near the area to prevent  says the embassy..
“Other protests on this or other issues may occur at any time and be repeated with little or no warning. The Embassy continues to caution its employees and all U.S. citizens to exercise heightened security awareness and avoid crowds and any areas where there are demonstrations or where confrontations could occur.”
For updated information on the security situation in Panama, American can contact  the American Citizens Services Unit of the U.S. Embassy at 207?7030. The Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy is located in Clayton, Building 783, in the Clayton section of Panama. The Consular Section fax is 207?7303. The Embassy web site is http://panama.usembassy.gov/ and e?mails should be addressed to Panama?ACS@state.gov. After hours and emergency phone number: 207?7000 or 207?7200.