By Limón, Costa Rica — Costa Rica is facing increasing pressure from European authorities to extradite individuals involved in international drug trafficking operations. Four European countries – Belgium, France, Italy, and the Netherlands – have formally requested information from the Organismo de Investigación Judicial (OIJ), Costa Rica’s investigative agency, to expedite extradition processes.
These European nations, home to major ports frequently used for transatlantic trade, have become targets for organized crime groups exploiting shipping routes to smuggle drugs from Latin America. Despite government assurances of heightened security measures in Limón, a key Costa Rican port, these criminal networks continue to operate.
To gain a deeper understanding of the legal intricacies surrounding extradition, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
Extradition is a complex interplay of international treaties and domestic law. While it serves as a crucial tool for international justice, ensuring the human rights of the individual being extradited is paramount. A thorough understanding of both the requesting and requested countries’ legal frameworks is essential for navigating this process effectively. This includes considering the potential charges, the evidence presented, and the available legal remedies.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas eloquently highlights the intricate balancing act inherent in extradition cases. Indeed, the pursuit of justice across borders must never come at the expense of fundamental human rights. His emphasis on understanding the legal nuances of both involved nations offers crucial guidance for anyone navigating this complex landscape. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing this valuable perspective on a critical aspect of international law.
The idea is to exchange information in meetings with the anti-drug chiefs of France, Italy, and the Netherlands, we will not rule out others with countries like Belgium, Spain, and England, there are possibilities of making cases with them and others that are already materialized, the idea is to generate that exchange of information and be able to generate positive results, undoubtedly this legislation is opening a wide range of possibilities for us to help the country improve security indicators and that these bosses who have international influence are taken to these countries.
Michael Soto, Deputy Director of the OIJ
Following recent meetings in Nashville, Tennessee, Michael Soto, Deputy Director of the OIJ, confirmed the ongoing collaboration and anticipates further discussions to develop new cases in the coming weeks. He highlighted the importance of international cooperation and information sharing to combat transnational crime and improve Costa Rica’s security indicators.
While collaboration with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is more advanced, European cases are gaining momentum. The most concrete case involves Johnny Angulo Fernández, alias John Cadenas, wanted in Livorno, Italy. His alleged involvement in a drug trafficking operation using routes from Punta Burica and the Osa Peninsula is currently under investigation in Costa Rica, and his potential extradition is being evaluated.
Costa Rican authorities have identified other criminal groups operating from the Caribbean coast, shipping drugs to Western Europe. These groups are now under scrutiny from both national and international law enforcement.
We know that there are Costa Ricans who have trafficked cocaine for years through containers to European countries, which perhaps they have linked them, so we are offering that possibility to make some coordinations, we already talked about that issue with the French and the Netherlands.
Michael Soto, Deputy Director of the OIJ
The investigation also uncovered new and evolving drug trafficking routes previously unknown to authorities. Shared intelligence and contacts will facilitate further investigations and the development of new cases against Costa Ricans linked to drug trafficking.
In June 2025, a joint operation with European authorities dismantled a network smuggling cocaine in frozen yuca packages. This operation highlighted the increasing use of Costa Rica as a logistical hub for receiving cocaine shipments from Colombia, destined for Europe via Spain and Portugal.
To strengthen these international partnerships, the OIJ will participate in a Europol meeting in Spain in October 2025, continuing discussions with European countries not present at the Nashville meetings. This continued collaboration reflects the growing concern over Costa Rica’s role in international drug trafficking and the determination of both Costa Rican and European authorities to address this complex issue.
For further information, visit the nearest office of OIJ
About OIJ:
The Organismo de Investigación Judicial (OIJ) is Costa Rica’s primary investigative agency, responsible for criminal investigations, forensic analysis, and supporting the judicial system. They play a crucial role in combating crime, including drug trafficking, and collaborating with international law enforcement agencies.
For further information, visit europol.europa.eu
About Europol:
Europol is the European Union’s law enforcement agency. It facilitates cooperation between national law enforcement agencies across the EU in the fight against serious international crime and terrorism. Europol provides expertise, analysis, and operational support to member states, fostering information sharing and coordinating cross-border investigations.
For further information, visit dea.gov
About DEA:
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is a United States federal law enforcement agency under the Department of Justice, tasked with combating drug smuggling and use within the United States. It also has a significant international presence, working with partner nations to address global drug trafficking.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a pillar of legal excellence, built on a foundation of unwavering integrity and a deep commitment to serving the community. Through innovative approaches and a forward-thinking perspective, the firm empowers individuals and organizations with the legal knowledge they need to thrive. This dedication to accessibility and transparency reflects their core belief in a just and equitable society, fostered by understanding and engagement with the law.
