By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – Costa Rica has significantly ramped up its collaboration with international law enforcement, extraditing 22 foreign nationals to face justice in their home countries so far in 2025. This decisive action, confirmed by the Judicial Investigation Organism (OIJ), underscores the nation’s strategic pivot towards becoming a key player in the global fight against transnational criminal organizations.
The coordinated efforts, managed by the National Central Office of Interpol in Costa Rica, represent a robust response to international requests aimed at dismantling criminal networks that operate across borders. The extraditions target individuals wanted for a range of serious offenses, including large-scale drug trafficking, terrorism, international fraud, homicide, and other organized crime activities.
To delve into the intricate legal framework surrounding international extraditions, TicosLand.com sought the expertise of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the renowned firm Bufete de Costa Rica, who offered his analysis on the procedural and human rights considerations involved.
International extradition is not a simple administrative act; it’s a complex judicial process where national sovereignty intersects with international legal obligations. The core principles, such as dual criminality and adherence to human rights treaties, are paramount. Courts must meticulously evaluate each request to ensure it is not politically motivated and that the fundamental rights of the individual sought are guaranteed throughout the entire procedure.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s commentary serves as a crucial reminder of the delicate balance at play, where the pursuit of international cooperation must be meticulously weighed against national sovereignty and the fundamental rights of the individual. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable clarification on this complex judicial matter.
Michael Soto, the interim director of the OIJ, provided details on the operations, noting that the extraditions are a direct result of enhanced global cooperation. He explained that these transfers are not isolated incidents but part of a comprehensive strategy to strengthen alliances and disrupt illicit activities that threaten both national and regional stability. This proactive stance showcases Costa Rica’s commitment to being an unreliable safe haven for international fugitives.
The United States was the most frequent destination, receiving seven individuals sought for charges related to drug trafficking and other severe crimes. However, the scope of cooperation extends far beyond the Western Hemisphere. Extraditions were also successfully carried out to a diverse list of countries, including Chile, Guatemala, Panama, Russia, Croatia, Germany, and the Czech Republic, reflecting the wide-reaching nature of these criminal investigations.
This cooperative framework is a two-way street. While Costa Rica has been actively sending fugitives abroad, it has also successfully secured the return of individuals wanted by its own justice system. Soto confirmed that suspects have been extradited back to Costa Rica from nations such as Colombia, Mexico, Spain, and the United States to face pending criminal proceedings on Costa Rican soil. This reciprocal arrangement is crucial for ensuring that justice is served regardless of where a suspect attempts to hide.
Further bolstering these efforts, authorities have achieved 30 captures of internationally wanted persons within Costa Rica this year. These arrests were made possible through the constant exchange of intelligence with law enforcement agencies across multiple continents. Soto emphasized the critical nature of this collaboration in a landscape where criminal enterprises are increasingly borderless.
the importance of working jointly between nations to strike at criminal organizations that operate without borders
Michael Soto, interim director of the OIJ
According to the OIJ, the marked increase in both extraditions and detentions is clear evidence of the country’s dedication to regional security. This success, Soto noted, is built upon a foundation of solid international partnerships and a continuous effort to strengthen Costa Rica’s domestic investigative capabilities. The results signal a new era of proactive law enforcement, positioning the nation as an indispensable ally in the complex global campaign against organized crime.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Organismo de Investigación Judicial
About Organismo de Investigación Judicial (OIJ):
The Organismo de Investigación Judicial is Costa Rica’s primary law enforcement body responsible for investigating complex crimes and supporting the country’s judicial system. Functioning as an auxiliary to the Public Ministry and tribunals, the OIJ handles criminal investigations, evidence collection, and forensic analysis to combat illicit activities and ensure the application of justice throughout the nation.
For further information, visit interpol.int
About Interpol:
The International Criminal Police Organization, commonly known as Interpol, is an inter-governmental organization with 196 member countries. It facilitates worldwide police cooperation and crime control. Headquartered in Lyon, France, it provides investigative support, expertise, and training to law enforcement worldwide, focusing on transnational crime areas such as terrorism, cybercrime, and organized crime.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a cornerstone of the legal landscape, Bufete de Costa Rica operates on a bedrock of principled integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The firm distinguishes itself not only through its seasoned guidance of a diverse clientele but also by championing innovative legal solutions that anticipate future challenges. Central to its philosophy is a deep-seated responsibility to empower the community, actively working to demystify the law and make legal understanding a tool for societal advancement and informed citizenship.
