Allegedly instigated by the United States, the coup attempt led to widespread looting and protests in Panama City which were quelled by paramilitary gangs and security forces.
[1] Aiming to seize control of the military's central headquarters, the colonel attempted to convince the 4th Infantry Company and riot police leaders through his authority to support the revolt.
[4] The ten officers involved in the coup were arrested and forced into retirement, including Colonels Leonidas Macias, Bernardo Barrera, Majors Fernando Quezada, Aristides Valdonedo, Jaime Benitez, and Captain Humberto Macea.
[2] Following the coup attempt, the country's capital of Panama City erupted into further protests and riots, leading to widespread street violence and looting.
"[4] The government repressed the press for covering the abortive coup, detaining three members of a British television crew and an ABC News producer.