We have had a pretty crime free experience in Panama.
We have never had anything stolen in our 5 years in Puerto Armuelles.
In general, Panama is a safe country with low crime. Of course, there are areas that are less safe, like some areas of Panama City.
Personally, the only "break-in" we have ever had was to my husband's truck.
The truck was parked in a remote area while he surfed. The culprit was a boy who lived nearby. Another, younger boy, who lives there too told my husband who it was.
Actually, the boy was not successful in breaking into the truck. Although, he succeeded in messing up our locks a bit.
This story brings us back to Panama bureaucracy.
My husband, Reyn, was going to press charges. He went to the Corregidora and told her what happened.
The Corregidora then outlined a daunting process that my husband would have to engage in to prosecute.
Reyn was told that once he initiates the process he had to stay in. The process would continue - and require his repeated presence - even if he changed his mind and did not want to presecute.
My husband decided not to press charges.
He visited the boy's parents instead.
My husband, Reyn, has parked in that same spot many times since and has not had a problem.
Watch another perspective on crime in Puerto Armuelles.
Comments or Questions About Crime in Panama?
