IL Postcard

Caught on Tape…Panama's New Security Measures

Date: 06/10/2007

Panama President Martin Torrijos recently inaugurated a "video vigilance" program aimed at making Panama City safer.

Video cameras and emergency telephone boxes (with direct lines to the nearest police station) have been strategically placed in Bella Vista.

Bella Vista is not a particularly high crime district, but the government says it is important to strengthen security there because the area encompasses a busy nightclub and restaurant district, as well as a large part of the financial district. The cameras are meant to deter crime against tourists and locals, and assist in identifying criminals in the event crime does occur. Some critics say the cameras are a waste of money-they cite a recent report in La Prensa saying that footage from the new cameras was consulted in connection with a carjacking. The video feed was of no help to investigators, who say the criminals' faces were unidentifiable.

The video vigilance program is just the first phase in an extensive undertaking dubbed "Project 911," the main aim of which is to give Panama an integrated emergency response system (similar to the 911 system employed all over the U.S.). Currently, Panamanians have to dial different numbers for police, fire and other emergencies. By replacing all these with one easy-to-remember number, authorities say anyone in distress will be able to call for help more quickly and efficiently.

Upcoming phases of the project include the inauguration of a new emergency attention center (where all 911 calls will be routed) and the installation of emergency response software, as well as special training for center personnel. Project 911 is an initiative of Active Club 20-30, a non-profit community organization. The Department for Government Innovation and the local branch of Cable & Wireless, a telephone service provider, also support the project.

Best Regards,

Jessica Ramesch
Editor, Panama Insider
International Living

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