Panama launched two major operations to combat drug trafficking. with the support of Colombia, Costa Rica, and the United States, on Monday, October 1.

Operation Lightning" and "Operation Shield", will be developed by land, sea, and air and will focus on fifty vulnerable communities across the country

"In the last four years, coca crops in Colombia have quadrupled, from 50,000 hectares to more than 200,000 hectares, which has represented important challenges for our public force," said President Juan Carlos Varela, during the launch of the operations.

"It is estimated that more than 100 tons of drugs try to pass through our country (per year) and Panama confiscates more than 70 tons a year. and is one of the countries that confiscates the most," said Varela.

Last year at least 84.6 tons of drugs, mostly cocaine,  were seized a record figure according to official data.

The Public Ministry of Panama said .that by  September 23  this almost 39 tons of drugs had been seized.

The operations launched Monday will focus on the fight against drug trafficking and the economic and social development of 51 coastal communities throughout the country, "which we have identified as potential logistical support networks for drug trafficking routes," he said.

The operations, which will last about a year, will be carried out by the different State security bodies, as well as through other public institutions such as the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Education,  the Panama Tourism Authority and the Aquatic Resources Authority.

"Drug trafficking has only two roads: jail or death, and I assure you that as president I will do everything within our reach as a State to rescue our young people," said Varela