A shocking incident unfolded in Panama, leaving the nation in disbelief. Kenneth Darlington, a 77-year-old lawyer and professor, found himself at the center of a terrifying event that shook the country. Here’s a breakdown of what transpired and the events leading up to the arrest of Kenneth Darlington.
Who is Kenneth Darlington?
Kenneth Darlington, a former university teacher who attended Florida State University and Isae Universidad Panama, has a complex background. According to a Facebook profile linked to him, he ran Mossack Darlington & Associates, a law firm in Panama. Additionally, social media user Rob Brown, associated with the International Film Festival Panama, identified Darlington as the business’s creator.
The Panama tragedy involving Kenneth Darlington has sent shockwaves through the nation, prompting questions about the circumstances leading to the shooting and the legal proceedings that will follow. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the complexities surrounding environmental protests and the responsibility of individuals in positions of influence.
The Tragic Shooting Incident
The incident occurred on the Pan-American Highway in Chame, located 51 miles from Panama City’s capital. Two protesters, Abdiel Diaz and Ivan Mendoza, lost their lives in a tragic turn of events. They were advocating against a contentious mining agreement that allowed Canada-based First Quantum Minerals to operate Panama’s largest copper mine. The protest aimed to highlight the environmental risks posed by the mining deal.
Kenneth Darlington’s Involvement
Kenneth Darlington, a dual citizen of the US and Panama, was driving down the heavily protested Pan-American Highway during the third week of the demonstration. Disturbing videos circulating on social media depict Darlington engaging with the protesters before nonchalantly approaching the highway barrier. In a shocking turn, he pulled out a revolver and opened fire.
The aftermath was captured in another video, showing Darlington being handcuffed and taken to a squad car, with the haunting sight of people gathered around the lifeless bodies of the protesters on the road.
Kenneth Darlington’s Arrest
Following the shooting, police released a picture of Kenneth Darlington, shackled to a pipe. Given his advanced age, there were expectations that he might be placed under house arrest rather than sentenced to jail time.
Darlington’s Criminal Past
Reports from Newsroom Panama reveal that this isn’t Kenneth Darlington’s first encounter with the law. In 2005, he was taken into custody after a raid on a Paitilla apartment uncovered multiple assault weapons, including an AK-47 and two M-1 rifles. Darlington was allegedly connected to banker Marc Harris, convicted of money laundering in the United States. Despite the serious charges, Darlington was released on bond, claiming the weapons were part of a collection.