Why did the US use military power to arrest Manuel Noriega?

Question

after ignoring other dishonest and corrupt leaders of Latin America?

Answer 1

Because he was hiding the fact that he was a drug dealer. By the way, It  just so happens  that I was one  of the many U.S. troops in panama at that time. Glad I could help.  

Answer 2

hello

i think a lot of people forget a little fact...

On December 15, 1989, the PRD-dominated legislature declared "a state of war" with the United States.

(Noriega subsequently claimed that his statement referred to U.S. actions against Panama, which he considered to be acts of war, and did not represent a declaration of hostilities by Noriega.)

The matter came to a head in December 1989: a U.S. Marine, returning from a restaurant in Panama City, was stopped and harassed to the point where he panicked and attempted to flee, and he was shot and killed.

In response, U.S. President George H.W. Bush launched an invasion of Panama

the invasion was essential to restore democracy to panama, remove a dictator and safe guard the canal .... very valid reasons for war !

and either way ... the world is a better place without the little dictator running around !

Answer 3

The honest answer? Noriega got his position in Panama thanks to the United States, which was more than willing to tolerate his activities until he stopped being useful. When Noriega decided to start acting independently of U.S. wishes, it was time for him to go. Reagan had a valid case for charging Noriega with running a drug operation, so he decided to circumvent the normal extradition proceedings and simply go get him.

Yes, I know the above sounds like typical conspiracy stuff, but go back and read the news reports from the period and it all makes sense.