Panamanian Union Leader Arrested: Aggravated Fraud and Money Laundering Charges

Panamanian Union Leader Arrested on Fraud and Money Laundering Charges Panama City, Panama – Genaro López, a leader of the powerful Suntracs construction union, was arrested and is now facing charges of aggravated fraud, money laundering, and illicit association. A judge ruled the arrest legal, rejecting arguments from López's defense team. The prosecution's case is based on 104 interviews with workers from the Red Frog Beach project in Bocas del Toro. These workers, union members, allege they were not paid wages owed after a legal strike. "The testimonies collected coincide," said Prosecutor Isis Soto Espinosa, "in indicating that they were not paid the stipulated amounts after a legal strike that concluded with a court ruling in their favor." The judge's decision emphasizes the seriousness of the accusations and the need for a thorough investigation. The case raises concerns about potential corruption within the union and its impact on workers' rights. The outcome of this case will likely have significant implications for the Panamanian labor movement and the fight against financial crimes.