Teacher's Strike in Panama Turns Violent: Tear Gas and Arson in La Chorrera

Protests Erupt in Panama as Teacher's Strike Turns Violent: Tear Gas and Arson Mark Day of Demonstrations in La Chorrera. La Chorrera, Panama – A peaceful teacher's strike took a violent turn today when police used tear gas to disperse protesters blocking a major roadway. The incident, which occurred near El Espino in the district of La Chorrera, province of Panama Oeste, resulted in a vehicle fire after a protester allegedly threw a tear gas canister into the car. "Units of the Crowd Control attempted to dialogue with the protesters before taking action," stated Commissioner Adolfo Pérez, head of the Panama Oeste Police Zone. "However, due to their refusal, a chemical agent was used to disperse the protest." The fire was quickly extinguished by police, and no injuries were reported. The incident underscores the escalating tensions surrounding the ongoing teacher's strike and raises concerns about the use of force during demonstrations. Investigations are underway to determine the full extent of the damage and to identify those responsible.