Alleged Member of the Favela-FVL Gang Captured in David Chiriquí Panama
A 39-year-old woman, wanted for the crime against collective security in the form of gang activity, was captured by units of the National Police during an operation carried out in the district of David, province of Chiriquí. The arrest took place in the Las 5 Esquinas sector, in the Pedregal district. After her apprehension, the woman was transferred to the appropriate authorities for processing. According to judicial investigations, the suspect allegedly maintains links with the self-styled Favela-FVL gang, an organization known for its alleged involvement in high-impact crimes, including drug trafficking, robberies, thefts, and homicides.
The self-styled Favela (or FVL) gang is a structured local criminal organization operating primarily in the Chiriquí Province of Panama, with a strong established presence in the corregimiento of Pedregal and the city of David.
Criminal Profile
The gang operates as an organized criminal structure linked to various high-impact crimes in the region. Notable activities include:
- Narcotics and Robberies: The gang has historically been involved in local drug trafficking operations and property crimes such as theft and robbery.
- Judicial Crackdowns: Panamanian judicial authorities frequently categorize these groups under the offense of “pandillerismo” (gang-related criminal association) due to their threat to collective security.
Recent Law Enforcement Actions
Panamanian security forces have targeted the Favela-FVL gang to dismantle its operations in Chiriquí:
- Major Sentences: A major joint operation resulted in the conviction of 14 core members of the Favela gang, who accepted their involvement in illicit association and were handed multi-year prison sentences.
Recent Arrests: The Policía Nacional de Panamá remains active against the group, conducting strategic raids in gang hotspots such as the “Las 5 Esquinas” sector in Pedregal to apprehend active or outstanding members.
