Fewer homicides in Panama

According the Panamanian authorities, the country's murder rate has decreased over 20% so far this year compared to the same time period in 2014.

Officials say a programme to rehabilitate gang members has been key in driving the figure down.

But a poll suggests the perception of insecurity in Panama remains high.

Panama does not have as serious a gang problem as other Central American nations such as Honduras and El Salvador.

But Panamanian gangs are believed to be behind the majority of the murders committed in recent years and also play a key part in drug trafficking.

Security Minister Rodolfo Aguilera says a programme offering gang members an amnesty and vocational training to lure them away from crime has been instrumental in reducing homicides in 2015.

 Tackling corruption, improved objective security situation.