Diplomats and Panamanian politicians say the growing criminal-justice crisis, with the lack of visible action against Noriega supporters, is quickly becoming the most explosive issue facing the new American-backed Government.

At the American Embassy, Noriega supporters opened fire on the building, firing six rounds in 20 minutes, Reuters reported.

Days after the completion of voting, Endara, Arias, and Ford were attacked on camera by Noriega supporters while security forces observed and refused to intervene.

The State Department said the Noriega regime was manipulating voter registration rolls to deny the vote to its opponents and to permit multiple voting by Noriega supporters.

They fear that Noriega supporters might conduct acts of sabotage against the Panama Canal or American military installations if the United States sent a large number of troops to Panama.

They also express concern that Noriega supporters might take Americans as hostages or wage guerrilla war against American troops.

Endara was beaten up by Noriega supporters the next day in his motorcade.

Opposition candidates were later attacked by Noriega supporters.

According to the Tass news agency, which was in contact with Noriega supporters, the US strike failed to arrest any of his leaders.

The day after Noriega supporters stoned the United States Embassy, students were in the street calling for the general's head.