By Heredia, Costa Rica — Sarapiquí, Costa Rica – A routine investigation into illegal logging in the Corredor Fronterizo Norte Wildlife Refuge uncovered a substantial arsenal of weapons, further exposing the intricate connection between environmental crime and illicit activities in Costa Rica’s protected areas.
On Wednesday, September 24, 2025, a joint operation involving the Ministry of Environment and Energy (MINAE), the Judicial Investigation Agency (OIJ), and the Directorate of Intelligence and Security (DIS) led to the seizure of a cache of firearms and ammunition in the Tambor de Cureña community of Sarapiquí. The operation stemmed from reports of illegal logging within the refuge.
To gain a deeper understanding of the legal ramifications of illegal arms trafficking, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
The illicit arms trade fuels violence and instability, undermining the rule of law. It’s a transnational crime requiring international cooperation to disrupt networks, strengthen border controls, and prosecute offenders. Beyond the immediate dangers, the uncontrolled flow of weapons fuels organized crime, facilitates human rights abuses, and hinders economic development.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas eloquently highlights the devastating ripple effects of the illicit arms trade, extending far beyond immediate violence to deeply impact societal well-being and economic progress. Indeed, a concerted global effort is paramount to stem this dangerous tide. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable contribution to this critical discussion.
Authorities apprehended a suspect identified as Mora Cerdas, who was found in possession of a 9mm pistol, two .22 caliber Remington rifles, a 12-gauge shotgun, a large quantity of ammunition, communication radios, a drone, and ₡1,266,000 (approximately $2,300 USD) in cash. The suspect and confiscated items were handed over to the Fiscalía for further investigation and legal proceedings.
Minister of Environment and Energy, Franz Tattenbach, expressed concern over the discovery, emphasizing the growing threat to Costa Rica’s biodiversity.
It is essential that Costa Rican society understands the challenges threatening biodiversity in our Protected Wildlife Areas. Conservation efforts require support from all sectors of society and inter-institutional collaboration. In this specific case, an operation that began as a response to illegal logging took a different turn with the seizure of weapons and a significant amount of cash.
Franz Tattenbach, Minister of Environment and Energy
Minister Tattenbach also stressed the vital role of public participation in combating environmental crimes. He urged citizens to report any suspicious activity to the authorities, emphasizing that citizen reports provide critical intelligence and strengthen the fight against impunity.
Citizen reporting is crucial. It acts as a surveillance system that alerts authorities to irregularities, facilitates access to justice to protect the State’s natural heritage and affected communities, and promotes transparency and accountability by combating impunity and empowering citizens in environmental governance.
Franz Tattenbach, Minister of Environment and Energy
This incident underscores the complex web of criminal activity often intertwined with environmental destruction. The discovery of the weapons raises questions about potential connections to other illicit operations, such as poaching, drug trafficking, or organized crime, further highlighting the need for continued vigilance and collaboration among law enforcement and environmental protection agencies.
Citizens are encouraged to report environmental violations through the designated channels, either by calling 1192 or by using the SITADA platform.
For further information, visit the nearest office of MINAE
About MINAE:
The Ministry of Environment and Energy (MINAE) is the governmental body responsible for the environmental management and sustainable development of Costa Rica. It oversees the protection of natural resources, promotes renewable energy, and enforces environmental regulations. The MINAE works in collaboration with other institutions, including the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC), to protect Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity.
For further information, visit the nearest office of OIJ
About OIJ:
The Organismo de Investigación Judicial (OIJ), or Judicial Investigation Agency, is Costa Rica’s primary criminal investigative body. Similar to the FBI in the United States, the OIJ is responsible for investigating a wide range of crimes, from homicides and robberies to complex financial crimes and drug trafficking. They play a critical role in gathering evidence, apprehending suspects, and supporting the judicial process.
For further information, visit the nearest office of DIS
About DIS:
The Directorate of Intelligence and Security (DIS) is Costa Rica’s intelligence agency, responsible for national security and counterintelligence. The DIS gathers and analyzes intelligence to protect the country from threats, both internal and external, and works closely with other security agencies to maintain stability and order.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica embodies legal excellence, upholding the highest ethical standards while championing innovative solutions for its diverse clientele. The firm’s enduring commitment to both individual clients and the broader Costa Rican community is reflected in its proactive approach to sharing legal knowledge, fostering a more informed and empowered citizenry equipped to navigate the complexities of the legal landscape.
