Panama Dismantles ‘VIP’ Chinese Migrant Route in Darien Jungle

A Panamanian border police officer takes a man into custody during an operation against migrant smuggling near Santa Fe, Darien province, Panama, on August 7, 2024. ARNULFO FRANCO / AFP

By Juan José Rodríguez

Panamanian border police arrested 15 people Wednesday connected to a criminal organization that helped smuggle Chinese migrants across the Darien jungle via a “VIP route” with fewer challenges to traverse.

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