Explosive device attack and fire target residence of Panamanian journalist Rolando Rodríguez

An explosive device thrown at the residence of Panamanian journalist Rolando Rodríguez caused significant damage and destroyed two vehicles in the San Miguelito district on 14 November 2026. The attack occurred at approximately 2:30 a.m. in the Brisas del Golf neighborhood. While the explosion and subsequent fire caused extensive damage to the home and vehicles, the associate deputy director of La Prensa was out of Panama City at the time of the incident.

Details of the attack

Security footage from neighboring properties captured a man walking in front of the residence with a backpack on his chest shortly before the detonation. The perpetrator arrived at the scene in a taxi, exited the vehicle, and threw the explosive device toward the property. The blast and the resulting fire destroyed two vehicles parked in the garage of the residence.

The wife of Rolando Rodríguez and the household pets were inside the residence when the explosion occurred. The wife managed to escape the scene uninjured. The Panamanian National Police and the Public Ministry are currently investigating the incident to identify the perpetrator and determine the origin of the explosive device.

Journalistic investigation context

The attack occurred while Rolando Rodríguez was preparing an investigation into connections between former government officials and a state contractor. This investigation is part of a larger investigative alliance involving CLIP, Transparencia Venezuela, Diario de Cuba, and Armando.info. The investigation specifically examines the business ties of the Carretero family to the Maduro regime and the Cuban government.

Rolando Rodríguez characterized the incident as a warning and a terrorist act intended to attack democratic values and freedom of expression. The attack took place one day after the observance of Journalist Day in Panama.

Official response and regional context

President José Raúl Mulino strongly rejected the violent action against the journalist. While attacks against physical journalists are considered sporadic in Panama, this incident has drawn significant attention from investigative and governmental authorities.

The Public Ministry continues to process evidence from the scene to build a case against the individual responsible for the attack. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to secure the area and identify the specific type of explosive device used in the assault.

Glossary

• San Miguelito district — A district where an aerial lift line is planned as part of the Panama Metro system expansion. It is one of the locations envisioned for the future transit network.
• Brisas del Golf — A neighborhood located in the Ernesto Córdoba Campos corregimiento of the Panama district. It is the location of the El Yappy Park sports complex.
• Panama City — A city in Panama. It served as an interim secretariat headquarters during the negotiation process.