Unreported Conflict: Indigenous Protest in Panama Turns Violent

Arimae Protest: Indigenous Community Clash with Police in Panama On Thursday, June 5th, 2025, members of the Embera and Wounaan indigenous communities in Arimae, Darien, Panama, engaged in a protest that escalated into a clash with police. The protesters blocked the Pan-American Highway, demanding government attention to their grievances. The demonstration was met with tear gas, leading to confrontations captured in a citizen journalist's video that has since gone viral. "They promised to defend us, but now they're silent," stated one protester in a video circulating on social media, highlighting the community's frustration with the lack of media coverage and perceived government inaction. The video shows protesters using makeshift shields and facing off against riot police. The raw footage depicts the intensity of the situation, including the use of tear gas and the visible distress of some protesters. While the specific demands of the protesters remain unclear, the video underscores the ongoing tensions between indigenous communities and the Panamanian government. The incident highlights the need for greater dialogue and understanding to address the concerns of these marginalized communities. The viral video serves as a powerful testament to the resilience and determination of the Embera and Wounaan people in advocating for their rights.