Recent statistics from the transit authority ATTT estimate that there are 847 pirate buses in the metropolitan area.

However, drivers of these buses say they are not operating illegally, but rather offering an alternative to users in areas where the Metro service is not widely available.

José Martínez, a construction worker, said that he depends on the pirate buses to get to work every day from Blancos de Veranillo to Río Abajo.

"If I didn't use them I would be late for work," he said.

Other areas where pirate buses generally operate are Las Colinas, Balboa and Northern Panama.

The cost of the passage varies between 50 cents and $2, depending on the hour, but the rates are not approved by the ATTT.

The National Chamber of Transport will hold a meeting with the ATTT today to demand action on the issue, especially against foreigners who have started operating these buses.

 La Prensa