A Cuban citizen has been sentenced in Panama for offenses related to document forgery and violations of customs regulations. The incident took place on November 21, when the individual arrived at Panama Pacifico International Airport on a flight from Havana. Upon his entry into the country, authorities noticed discrepancies in his customs declaration.
Although he was carrying $10,893, the man declared only a portion of the amount, raising suspicions among officials. The investigation, spearheaded by the Panama Oeste Regional Prosecutor's Office through the Section for Crimes Against Public Faith, led to charges being filed against the accused. It was further revealed that he had submitted false documentation, worsening his legal predicament.
During the hearing, Prosecutor Claribel Miranda presented compelling evidence proving the man's culpability. This included fraudulent documents and the undeclared money. Based on this evidence, Judge Yorlenis Rodríguez legalized the arrest. An agreement was reached, imposing several penalties on the Cuban national:
- A fine of 700 USD in place of a 16-month prison sentence. - Forfeiture of 893 USD that was not properly declared. - Immediate deportation and a permanent ban from re-entering Panama.
The Public Ministry, which did not disclose the identity of the Cuban accused, emphasized the significance of this case as part of their ongoing efforts to protect public trust and ensure adherence to laws in the Central American nation. As of the closing of this report, no further details about the case have been released.