**Authorities Investigate Rise of ‘Drop-by-Drop’ Loan Sharking in Panama**
**CHITRÉ, Herrera** — Panamanian law enforcement officials are intensifying their scrutiny of a predatory lending practice known as “drop-by-drop” (*gota a gota*), which authorities link to money laundering, violence, and organized crime.
The investigation follows the recent arrest of a Colombian national in Chitré, Herrera. During the operation, police seized cash, various documents, and mobile phones believed to be connected to the illicit lending scheme.
“Drop-by-drop” lending typically involves high-interest, short-term loans offered to individuals who may lack access to traditional banking services. According to authorities, these operations often rely on intimidation and physical violence to ensure repayment.
Police are currently investigating the extent to which these lending networks are integrated into broader organized crime structures within Panama. The case remains under active investigation as officials work to dismantle the networks behind these operations.
Article source: newsroompanama.com | Image credit: Newsroom Panama
