Costa Rica Launches Major Offensive Against Drug Cartel
Costa Rican law enforcement has initiated a landmark offensive against the South Caribbean Cartel. This operation represents the largest police action in the country’s history, signaling a significant step in combating organized crime.
Costa Rica’s Bold Crackdown on Drug Cartel
The Organismo de Investigación Judicial (OIJ) deployed 1,200 officers to execute 64 coordinated raids across multiple provinces. The primary locations for action included Limón, San José, Alajuela, Cartago, Puntarenas, and Isla Chira. This unprecedented operation, called “Traición,” aims to dismantle a robust transnational organization involved in various criminal activities.
Focus of the Operation
- Drug trafficking
- Arms smuggling
- Money laundering
- Related homicides
Authorities have described the cartel as the most extensive criminal network in Costa Rica, exhibiting a structured organization. The cartel operates through armed units, sophisticated financial operations, and logistics support, utilizing both maritime and land routes.
Key Figures in the Cartel
Among the leaders are individuals referred to by their aliases, including “Noni” and “Shock.” Noni is currently detained in Costa Rica, while Shock is facing extradition from the United Kingdom to the United States. The cartel’s armed wing is reportedly under the command of Tony Peña Russell, who has directed violent activities within the region.
Other prominent figures tied to the cartel, such as “Macho Coca” and “Pecho Rata,” contribute to the organization’s operations, solidifying the cartel’s influence in Costa Rica.
International Cooperation Against Organized Crime
Michael Soto, the OIJ’s subdirector, emphasized the international collaboration involved in this operation. Authorities have teamed up with law enforcement from:
- Colombia
- Panama
- Spain
- United Kingdom
- United States
- France
These international partnerships have provided crucial intelligence about the cartel’s operations, which extend across both the Caribbean and Pacific coastlines.
Impact of the Cartel in Limón
The South Caribbean Cartel has significantly affected the Limón province, contributing to violence related to turf wars and drug trafficking. Authorities have linked the group to numerous homicides and attacks on law enforcement officials in recent years.
The recent raids have already led to the seizure of vital evidence, including weapons, cash, and financial documents associated with the cartel’s operations. This comprehensive approach underscores Costa Rica’s determination to address the growing threat of organized crime.
As investigations progress, more arrests and additional charges are anticipated. Officials believe this operation will disrupt drug flows and help decrease violence in impacted communities, particularly in Limón, which has recently faced intensified territorial conflicts.
