Israeli embassy security chief victim of Panama express kidnapping

The head of security at the Israeli embassy in Panama  is one of the latest victims of “express kidnapping” in the city.

Arik Barda who was kidnapped in Albrook, was rescued around midnight on Friday  by p in  Las Torres, in the District of Arraijan. 

Authorities said that the kidnapping did not appear to be politically motivated but National Police security at the Israeli embassy security has been stepped up.

“Express kidnapping," is when the victim is taken from one ATM to another and forced to withdraw money. Victims who drive vehicles with heavily darkened windows are often prime targets.

Barda was  found naked  and severely beaten in the trunk of a car. Evidence of withdrawals an overseas bank account was found.

The security chief was taken to hospital for medical attention. 

In June 2010, two Israeli experts  brought in to train the bodyguards of President  Ricardo Martinelli, were robbed at gunpoint by several hooded men. The robbers took Israeli money, jewelry and credentials of the Institutional Protection Service (SPI).

Local  authorities said that the instructors worked for an Israeli security agency and were not members,  of Mossad, the Israeli  Intelligence and Special Services agency Israel which carries out anti-terrorism and espionage missions,

In March 2010, Martinelli  announced  during a visit to Tel Aviv tha the would support Israel in all international forums, generating a strong debate on Panama's foreign policy and its effects on the neutrality of the Panama Canal says La Prensa.
 Arraiján Police Director Miguel Avila said that several suspects have been detained.