BRIEFS. public safety

Tougher measures to curb crime needed

la prensa

more security: Authorities are asking President Martín Torrijos for more resources to combat drug trafficking and other crimes. 983959

In addition to the curfew, the raids and the suspension of liquor licenses in canteens and wineries -measures that will come into force starting Feb.18- the government is studying the possibility of trying minors as adults, a strategy expected to curb the wave of crime currently shaking the country.

A communiqué from the Ministerio de Gobierno y Justicia states that this course of action was proposed by the authorities of the Policía Nacional in recent meetings convened by President Martín Torrijos to address the issue of crime in the country.

The measure, as proposed by the Ministerio, would include punishing those adolescents who engage in serious crimes such as murder, and especially those who are repeat offenders.

Authorities are also considering establishing tighter controls on the granting of permits to carry firearms. Additionally, Police spoke of the necessity to improve the training of private security officers, who, in their view, have become easy prey for criminals who want to steal their weapons.

Finally, the Ministerio attempted to impress upon Torrijos the necessity for more resources to combat drug trafficking.