Panamanian authorities have launched an investigation into a bombing that targeted the home of investigative journalist Rolando Rodríguez early Saturday morning. According to the newspaper La Prensa, which publishes his work, no injuries were reported in the incident, though the residence sustained property damage.
The Attorney General’s Office of Panama stated that officials are currently investigating the matter as a possible case of arson, noting that the scope of the probe could expand if additional criminal activity is uncovered. The attack occurred at approximately 2:30 a.m. when an individual arrived by taxi, exited the vehicle, and threw an object at the house, which subsequently triggered an explosion. At the time of the attack, Rodríguez was not in Panama City, and his wife, who was at the home, managed to escape unharmed.
Addressing the event, Rodríguez told reporters that the attack signifies a shift in the environment for journalists in the country. “While this was an attack on my life and the lives of my family, I must say that it changes the rules of the game in Panama,” he said. “Because now, we are all potentially exposed to this kind of thing.” The journalist has long been involved in reporting on alleged corruption and irregularities within the Panamanian public sector, the judiciary, and the business community. La Prensa noted that the attack occurred while Rodríguez was preparing to publish an investigation implicating former officials from President José Raúl Mulino’s administration and a government contractor.
President Mulino condemned the act via social media, confirming that the National Police and the Public Prosecutor’s Office are coordinating to gather evidence. He stated that Panama does not tolerate such actions and confirmed that he had contacted the journalist to express his solidarity. The incident has drawn widespread condemnation from both national and international media organizations. The National College of Journalists has demanded a rigorous, transparent investigation to hold those responsible accountable. Jorge Molina, president of Corporación La Prensa, described the incident as an act of terrorism, adding, “This goes beyond the press; it is an act of terrorism. That is a harsh term, especially given Panama’s history.”
