An intelligence operation involving three security institutions led to the arrest of two men on Panama ’s most wanted list and allegedly linked to drug trafficking and multiple murders in Colón.

Captured were Eduardo Macea Alonzo, alias "Marshall" and his lieutenant Jairo Garibaldo Martínez,  who have been investigated for involvement in drug crimes and their roles in 30 gang-related murders and executions since last August.

The arrests took place on the island of Naos, on the Amador Causeway, where the men had a luxury apartment  after  an exchange of fire that left a security vehicle with 30 bullet holes

Assault weapons, including AK 47s  and automatic pistols, were confiscated, along with a luxury 4x4 vehicle and more than $3,000 in cash.

President, Juan Carlos Varela said on Twitter that it was a major impact operation against organized crime.