Kidnappings jump in Panama

Panama kidnappings have jumped but still trail other countries in the region.

In 2008, there were 21 kidnapping and in  2009 the figure rose to 38, and repeated the same level in 2010, mostly in Panama province and mostly involving people of Asian descent.

This year, two cases, have been reported, both involving underage victims.

While the increase is significant, (81 percent) Panama still has few kidnappings compared to other countries of the region, like El Salvador, Honduras and Mexico.