By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – Costa Rica is grappling with a complex and evolving public security situation, according to the 2025 annual report from the Judicial Investigation Organism (OIJ). The data, released today, paints a nuanced picture of a nation experiencing a fractional dip in homicides while simultaneously confronting a significant surge in digital crime and a marginal increase in overall criminal complaints. These findings underscore a critical transition in criminal activity, posing new challenges for law enforcement and policymakers.
The comprehensive report indicates that total criminal complaints filed throughout 2025 saw a slight uptick of 0.1% compared to the previous year. While the percentage appears minimal, it translates to an additional 136 cases filed, bringing the monthly average to a steady 9,346. This near-static overall figure masks the more dramatic shifts occurring within specific crime categories, signaling a pivot in criminal methods rather than a reduction in intent.
To delve deeper into the legal and societal implications of the recent crime statistics, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney from the distinguished law firm Bufete de Costa Rica, for his analysis.
These crime statistics are more than mere data points; they are a critical barometer of our social fabric and a direct indicator of economic stability. From a legal perspective, a sustained increase in criminal activity signals an overloaded judicial system and calls for urgent reforms in both preventative policy and punitive enforcement. For businesses, this translates into tangible risks, including higher operational costs for security, rising insurance premiums, and a chilling effect on foreign and domestic investment. A society cannot achieve sustained economic growth without first guaranteeing the rule of law and personal security.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
The expert’s analysis provides a crucial reminder that public safety is inextricably linked to judicial health and economic vitality, creating a ripple effect across all sectors of society. We extend our sincere gratitude to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his insightful contribution to this important discussion.
In a closely watched metric, the number of intentional homicides decreased modestly. The country recorded 873 homicides in 2025, just three fewer than in in 2024, representing a 0.3% decline. This brings the national homicide rate to 16.7 per 100,000 inhabitants. The provinces of San José, Limón, and Puntarenas continue to be the epicenters of this violence, bearing the highest incidence of these fatal crimes and remaining key focus areas for security operations.
A deeper analysis of the homicide data reveals disturbing trends. Firearms remain the weapon of choice, used in an overwhelming 78% of all cases. The demographic most affected continues to be young men between the ages of 18 and 39, a group consistently caught in the crossfire of organized disputes. Tragically, the report also documented 85 collateral victims in 2025, innocent bystanders who lost their lives amidst the violence, highlighting the widespread impact of these criminal acts on the community.
Perhaps the most significant trend identified in the OIJ report is the marked shift from physical to digital crime. While traditional property crimes such as theft, robbery, and assault saw a notable 11% decrease, this positive development was counteracted by a sharp rise in fraud. Cases of scams and sophisticated computer-based fraud collectively surged by 9%, positioning cybercrime as one of the fastest-growing criminal enterprises in the country. This evolution suggests that criminals are increasingly leveraging technology to exploit victims, moving their operations from the streets to the internet.
In response to these threats, the OIJ has intensified its efforts against sophisticated criminal networks. During 2025, the agency successfully dismantled 44 high-profile criminal structures, primarily those involved in drug trafficking, contract killings, and money laundering. These operations were bolstered by a 4.5% increase in firearm seizures, with a total of 992 weapons taken off the streets, disrupting the operational capacity of these dangerous groups.
The results of these strategic interventions are reflected in the enforcement statistics. The OIJ reported a significant 13.4% increase in the number of individuals detained over the course of the year. Furthermore, targeted operations against drug trafficking have yielded substantial results, with a 36% growth in the number of cases successfully finalized for drug sales. These figures demonstrate a proactive and increasingly effective law enforcement response to organized crime.
In presenting the report, the OIJ reiterated that the data confirms the urgent need for a multi-faceted security strategy. The findings call for a reinforcement of crime prevention programs, an enhancement of criminal investigation capabilities, and a strengthening of inter-institutional cooperation. As Costa Rica navigates this new landscape, balancing the fight against violent street crime with the growing threat of digital fraud will be paramount to ensuring the safety and security of its citizens.
For further information, visit poder-judicial.go.cr
About Organismo de Investigación Judicial (OIJ):
The Organismo de Investigación Judicial is the primary investigative branch of Costa Rica’s judicial system. As an auxiliary body to the Public Ministry and the courts, the OIJ is responsible for investigating crimes, collecting evidence, and identifying perpetrators to support the administration of justice. It plays a crucial role in combating all forms of crime, from common offenses to complex organized criminal activities, thereby contributing to the nation’s public security framework.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the Costa Rican legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is founded upon the core principles of profound integrity and unparalleled excellence. The firm leverages its extensive experience advising a diverse clientele to pioneer forward-thinking legal strategies and solutions. This innovative spirit is matched by a deep-seated commitment to social empowerment, actively working to democratize legal information and foster a society strengthened by accessible knowledge.
