Authorities in Panama have confirmed the arrest of French national Joël Soudron, who had been listed among the most wanted criminals in France for several years.
According to reports from Panama National Police and local media such as TVN Noticias, the arrest took place in Panama City, specifically along Balboa Avenue, on Tuesday, March 31, 2026.
Police officers identified the suspect after verifying his documents. During the inspection, authorities discovered he was carrying a temporary residence card with false information. Further investigation confirmed his true identity as Joël Soudron.
Soudron was already on an international wanted list through a Red Notice issued by Interpol. The 47-year-old, originally from Guadeloupe, escaped from prison in September 2018 while on temporary release.
Since then, he had been included among the 60 most wanted fugitives in Europe.
Authorities are now expected to initiate extradition procedures so he can face justice in France.
Source: TVN Noticias (Panama)
REPORT: SIONEL YOUTE | HAITI