Infidelity; 98 Deported Migrants from the U.S. Transferred from a Hotel in Panama to Darién; Pan-American Highway to Have Closures Until February 23; Fuel Prices Will Increase in Panama This Week.

Friday, February 21, 2025. Infidelity Investigations: A Private Investigator’s Perspective When BM Investigations began operations in 1994, one of our primary areas of work was infidelity investigations. At the time, we handled 10 to 20 cases per month, often requiring multiple teams working simultaneously. Over the years, we have seen firsthand how infidelity plays out—not just in the emotional and legal consequences, but also in the ease with which individuals engaged in affairs expose themselves to discovery. The Legal Requirement for Evidence in Panama In Panama, as in many jurisdictions, obtaining legal cause for divorce requires evidence. The affected spouse must present proof of infidelity or misconduct to the courts, making private investigators an essential resource in these cases. Our job is to gather this evidence discreetly and professionally, ensuring that our clients have the documentation needed to proceed with their cases. Whether it’s through surveillance, digital forensics, or other investigative means, we have refined our methods to uncover the truth. Infidelity: A Psychological Weakness That Makes Itself Obvious Dr. Jordan Peterson, in his book Beyond Order, discusses the psychological turmoil that comes with engaging in dishonest and destructive behaviors, such as infidelity. He highlights that when people betray their commitments, they also betray themselves in ways they don’t immediately realize. Their focus becomes fractured, their emotional stability wavers, and they stop thinking clearly—leading them to make careless mistakes. From an investigative perspective, this psychological unraveling is precisely what makes infidelity cases relatively obvious to detect. People engaged in affairs think they are being clever, but in reality, they are changing their routines in noticeable ways. Some of the most common indicators we see include: Why Infidelity is a Losing Game As Peterson points out, engaging in an affair is not just a betrayal of one’s partner but also a self-destructive act. The psychological toll of deception leads to increased stress, anxiety, and ultimately, a loss of control. Individuals in these scenarios become more reckless over time, convinced they are still in control while they are, in fact, displaying every red flag possible. For private investigators, this means that infidelity cases are often straightforward. The more someone tries to cover their tracks, the more obvious they become. They stop thinking logically and let their emotions dictate their decisions, which ultimately makes catching them a matter of patience and observation. A Lesson in Commitment The role of a private investigator in these cases is not to pass judgment but to uncover the truth. However, experience has shown us that trust, honesty, and commitment are the foundations of any successful relationship. When these are broken, it is not just the betrayed partner who suffers, but also the betrayer, who slowly loses their grip on reality. At BM Investigations, we continue to offer our expertise in uncovering the truth, helping our clients move forward with the clarity they need. While technology and tactics have evolved, human nature remains unchanged—those who betray often end up revealing themselves in the most predictable ways. If you suspect infidelity and need professional assistance, our team is here to help. Contact us to discuss your case confidentially and take the first step toward finding the truth. TOP NEWS and TIDBITS: Precautionary Measures: Periodic Reporting and Travel Ban for 83 Defendants Over Protests A Guarantee Judge decreed precautionary measures for the 83 individuals charged in connection with the disturbances on Avenida Balboa, including: Precautionary Measures: Workers Detained in Protests• Reporting to the authorities twice a month.• Travel restriction from leaving the provinces of Panama and Panama Oeste.• Prohibition from approaching the victims of the case. These measures were imposed after analyzing the arguments presented by the Prosecutor’s Office and the defendants’ defenses during the control hearing. READ ORIGINAL ARTICLE HERE 98 Deported Migrants from the U.S. Transferred from a Hotel in Panama to Darién Nearly 300 Migrants Arrived in the Central American Country on Three Flights from the United States A group of 98 migrants, out of the 299 deported by the United States who were staying in a central hotel in Panama, were transferred last night to a shelter in the province of Darién, home to the namesake jungle that serves as a natural border with Colombia. This transfer occurred after they had not yet agreed to voluntarily return to their countries of origin. Initially, 109 migrants were set to be transferred last night, but 11 ultimately decided to return to the hotel to voluntarily take flights from Panama back to their home countries, a source familiar with the process told EFE on Wednesday. Thus, out of the nearly 300 migrants deported from the U.S. to Panama last week under an agreement between both nations, 98 were transferred to Darién, at least 13 have already returned to their countries by air, and another 187 remain in a hotel in Panama City after accepting voluntary return. Additionally, Panama’s National Migration Service announced in a statement on Wednesday that “a foreign national of Chinese nationality has escaped,” allegedly with the external assistance of individuals who were lurking around the hotel, which was under the surveillance of Panamanian security forces. On Tuesday, EFE was outside the hotel where the migrants are being housed, where some wrote messages on the windows such as “help” or “we are not safe in our countries.” Panama’s Minister of Security, Frank Ábrego, explained on Tuesday that these nearly 300 migrants were under the “custody” or “temporary protection” of the Panamanian government at the Decapolis hotel, near the coastal avenue in Panama City. He noted that the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) are managing the “repatriation” process. The IOM clarified that its role is limited to working “with local officials to assist those affected, supporting voluntary returns for those who request them, and identifying safe alternatives for others,” providing “humanitarian support and facilitating returns when it is safe to do so.” Ábrego had previously stated that around 171 of the 299 migrants “agreed to return voluntarily.” The nearly

SUNTRACS and a Poor Grasp on Reality; Clashes on Avenida Balboa: Workers could Face Multiple Charges, Including Attempted Homicide; Panama and Costa Rica Agree on Measures for Migrants; Tocumen Airport Starts 2025 with Strong Growth in Passengers, Operations, and Cargo.

Friday, February 14, 2025. Suntracs, Protests, and the People’s Frustration (Once Again): A Battle Between Rights and Realities Once again, Panama found itself in the all-too-familiar chaos of protests this last week, yet another episode of street blockades orchestrated by SUNTRACS, the powerful construction workers’ union known for its aggressive protest tactics. At exactly 7:00 AM—during peak traffic hours—protesters took to the streets, effectively paralyzing the capital. Commuters were left stranded, businesses delayed their operations, and the already fragile urban mobility was brought to a halt. The reason? SUNTRACS claims to be fighting for the people, raising their voices against the controversial Social Security reforms that have stirred national debate. Sure, they might have a point, but at this rate, they’re doing a better job of uniting the people—against them. Panamanians are undeniably frustrated with the Social Security crisis. The uncertainty surrounding their future pensions and healthcare services has sparked concern across all sectors of society. The government’s proposed reforms are widely viewed with skepticism, with many fearing that they will be forced to bear the financial burden of decades of mismanagement. Public discontent is palpable, and protests against these policies are understandable—perhaps even necessary. However, the same people protesting the reforms are also the ones who need to get to work, drop their children at school, or access emergency medical care. Today, many found themselves trapped in a traffic nightmare, unable to fulfill their daily responsibilities. The frustration was evident. People honked like it was an impromptu symphony, social media exploded in memes and outrage, and many wondered if SUNTRACS was championing the people or just holding them hostage in traffic purgatory. The situation escalated further when riot police were deployed to reopen key roads. In some areas, protesters voluntarily dispersed, but in others, confrontations turned violent. The police resorted to tear gas, while demonstrators hurled rocks in retaliation. The week spiraled into the usual spectacle of honking horns, tear gas plumes, and bewildered citizens wondering if they’d ever make it to work on time., with reports of injuries on both sides. This raises an important question: When does the right to protest infringe upon the rights of others? Strikes and demonstrations are fundamental democratic expressions, but when they lead to widespread disruption and violence, they risk losing public support. SUNTRACS may be pushing back against government policies, but it is also pushing working-class Panamanians—many of whom live paycheck to paycheck—into deeper frustration and hardship. The irony is stark. The people want solutions to the Social Security dilemma, yet they also need to get to work. While the government needs to fix this mess before we all retire in gridlock, SUNTRACS should consider protests that don’t make the average worker fantasize about becoming a hermit in the jungle. Advocacy for the people should not come at the expense of the people. As Panama grapples with these challenges, one thing remains clear: a sustainable solution requires dialogue, not force—whether from the government, the unions, or the streets. TOP NEWS and TIDBITS: Clashes on Avenida Balboa: Workers could Face Multiple Charges, Including Attempted Homicide After a marathon day of clashes on Avenida Balboa between the National Police and construction workers, approximately 514 people have been detained, and 17 officers have been reported injured. This was confirmed by Jorge Domínguez, Deputy Director of the National Police, in an interview with Noticias AM. He also stated that more than 70 individuals from the group of 514 detainees have been identified for investigation on suspicion of attempted homicide. According to Domínguez, all the detainees were inside the buildings of the new Hospital del Niño, which was used as a stronghold by the protesters to obstruct free movement in the area. “The National Police and the Ministry of Security are not violating any rights,” — Jorge Domínguez, Deputy Commissioner of the National Police He clarified that on Thursday, those detained who have not been linked to any specific crime will be handed over to a justice of the peace. Injuries and Medical Assistance Regarding the injured officers, Domínguez reported that out of the 17, three remain in intensive care. As for affected workers, they are receiving medical care from National Police personnel. Protesters Used Heavy Materials as Weapons The Deputy Director also clarified that the protesters never distributed flyers, as initially claimed. Instead, they blocked all four lanes of Avenida Balboa. Domínguez referenced Article 38 of the Constitution, which states that demonstrations do not require prior authorization, as long as they do not affect third parties. However, if they interfere with others, the Constitution grants authorities the right to restore public order by necessary means. He explained that the protesters used the building as a trench, throwing objects onto the street even after traffic had been restored. He mentioned the use of heavy materials, such as concrete blocks and iron rods, which became potentially lethal weapons, leading to possible attempted homicide charges. Property Damage and Vandalism The protesters also damaged public and private property, including the Cinta Costera construction site, vandalized facilities, and even attempted to set fire to a building. Despite this, Domínguez emphasized that all detainees were inside the occupied buildings during the disturbances. Use of Non-Lethal Force and Defense of Rule of Law The Commissioner defended the use of non-lethal measures, such as tear gas, to disperse the protesters and restore order. He assured that these measures were applied in a controlled manner to minimize health risks, especially near hospitals like Hospital del Niño and Hospital Santo Tomás. He also highlighted cooperation with medical personnel to ensure that detainees’ rights were respected. READ ORIGINAL ARTICLE HERE Panama and Costa Rica Agree on Measures for Migrants The Minister of Security proposed the possibility of using Metetí to return migrants to their home countries. He also discussed the potential reestablishment of the Gualaca camp. Security and migration authorities from Panama and Costa Rica are evaluating the use of Nicanor, Metetí, in Darién province, as a location for repatriation flights for migrants returning from