80 bad cops fired since October
At least 80 of Panama’s National Police force have been arbitrarily fired since October last year.
The firings by the executive branch, took place in the metropolitan area, San Miguelito and the Canal Zone. without legal explanation, according to several of those affected. They range from rookies to one with 26 years seervice.
At least half have filed appeals and will remain in their jobs until the appeals are heard.
According to sources within the force, the police were dismissed under Article 184 of the Constitution, which gives the President of the Republic the power to hire and fire leaders and other members of the security sectors.