Interpol Red Notice Rejected for Ex-Panama President Martinelli Amid Asylum

Panama’s police have denied a request from the judiciary to issue an Interpol red notice for former President Ricardo Martinelli, citing Interpol’s rules prohibiting red alerts for political asylum seekers. Martinelli, who led Panama from 2009 to 2014, has taken refuge inside Nicaragua’s embassy in Panama City following a money laundering conviction.

Authorities moved to arrest the former leader after he was found guilty by a Panamanian court. However, Martinelli was granted political asylum by Nicaragua, and on Thursday, Panama’s government approved his safe passage to the Central American country.

In an official statement released Sunday, Panama’s police confirmed the rejection of the red notice request, stating, “It does not comply with Interpol’s parameters established in 2014 and reaffirmed in 2017, which prohibit red alerts for refugees or asylum seekers, such as Mr. Ricardo Martinelli Berrocal.”

The decision underscores legal protections provided to individuals granted political asylum, despite the serious charges they may face. Martinelli’s spokesperson confirmed the red notice request had been turned down, reinforcing his status as a protected political figure under international protocols.

Interpol and Martinelli’s legal team have not issued public comments as of Sunday night. However, the situation continues to draw attention as Panama navigates the political and diplomatic complexities surrounding the high-profile case.

The former president’s asylum and Panama’s decision to permit his exit may further strain diplomatic relations in the region, highlighting the challenges of international law enforcement when asylum and political protections are involved.

This development is a significant moment in Panama’s legal and political landscape, raising questions about justice, immunity, and the use of international legal mechanisms like Interpol.