The World - News from Aug. 25, 1988

More than half of the U.S. military personnel in Panama have moved from private homes to the safety of U.S. military bases because of Washington’s dispute with Gen. Manuel A. Noriega, a Defense Department spokesman said. “There is a perceived threat to U.S. individuals and property,” the spokesman said, adding that Noriega followers had stepped up harassment of U.S. service personnel since the Panamanian military leader, who has been indicted in the United States on drug-trafficking charges, took power in February. American officials have urged military personnel living off base in Panama City to move to U.S. government installations. About 1,550 of the 2,450 military personnel and their families have moved since April, the spokesman said.