By Puntarenas, Costa Rica — OSA, Puntarenas – A brazen motorcycle theft, executed in broad daylight in the parking lot of a bustling supermarket, has prompted a public appeal from the Judicial Investigation Organism (OIJ) and cast a spotlight on the growing vulnerability of commercial spaces to property crime. The incident, which occurred in the canton of Osa, underscores a troubling trend that security experts say requires urgent attention from both businesses and the public.
The crime took place on November 9, 2025, at approximately 9:46 a.m., a time when the supermarket parking lot was active with shoppers. According to the OIJ’s Regional Subdelegation in Osa, the entire theft was captured on security footage. The video shows an individual calmly entering the parking area, approaching a parked motorcycle, and making off with the vehicle in a matter of minutes, demonstrating a disturbing level of confidence and disregard for potential witnesses.
To better understand the legal framework surrounding motorcycle theft and the crucial steps victims must take, TicosLand.com consulted with legal expert Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the distinguished law firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The moment a motorcycle is stolen, the owner’s immediate actions are critical. Filing a formal complaint, or ‘denuncia,’ with the OIJ is the non-negotiable first step. This official act is the legal key that starts the investigation, alerts the national registry to block any fraudulent transfers, and is an absolute prerequisite for making a valid insurance claim. Any delay in reporting the crime can severely compromise the chances of recovery and financial restitution.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
The attorney’s advice underscores a critical reality: in the race against time following a theft, the official ‘denuncia’ is not merely paperwork but the victim’s essential first line of defense. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for so clearly articulating the legal and financial gravity of this immediate and indispensable action.
Authorities have released a detailed description of the suspect in hopes the public can provide identifying information. He is described as a man with a light-brown complexion and a slim build. At the time of the theft, he was wearing a long-sleeved black t-shirt with a small white logo on one side, black shorts, and sandals. Paradoxically, while his choice of casual footwear suggests an air of nonchalance, he was wearing a full motorcycle helmet, which obscured his facial features but did little to conceal his criminal intent.
The suspect’s calm demeanor and casual attire have particularly caught the attention of investigators. This method suggests a calculated exploitation of the perceived safety within a busy commercial environment. Criminals are increasingly aware that the constant flow of people and vehicles can provide a form of anonymity, allowing them to blend in while shoppers are preoccupied. This incident serves as a stark reminder that high-traffic areas are not immune to premeditated crime.
This case is not an isolated one. Across Costa Rica, security analysts have noted a significant rise in thefts targeting motorcycles in the parking lots of supermarkets, shopping centers, and other retail establishments. These locations are often considered “soft targets” due to inconsistent surveillance, a lack of dedicated security patrols for parking areas, and the high turnover of vehicles, which makes it difficult to spot suspicious activity in real-time. The economic impact extends beyond the simple loss of property, as many victims rely on their motorcycles for work and daily transportation.
In response, the OIJ has issued an urgent call for public assistance to identify the individual responsible for the Osa theft. They stress that any information, regardless of how minor it may seem, could be the key to breaking the case. Citizens can provide tips completely confidentially through the OIJ’s dedicated channels, including their telephone hotline at 800-8000-645 or via their official WhatsApp line at 8800-0645. The anonymity of informants is guaranteed to encourage cooperation.
While the judicial process continues, authorities are also emphasizing the importance of proactive crime prevention. The OIJ recommends that all motorcycle owners take extra precautions when parking in public spaces. These measures include using high-quality secondary locking devices, such as disc locks or heavy-duty chains, in addition to the bike’s standard ignition lock. Parking in well-lit areas with clear surveillance camera coverage and remaining vigilant of one’s surroundings can also act as significant deterrents.
Ultimately, the theft in Osa highlights a critical intersection of public safety and commercial responsibility. As this criminal trend continues, there is a growing need for businesses to invest in more robust security infrastructure for their parking facilities. For now, the investigation remains active, with law enforcement and the community working in tandem to bring the perpetrator to justice and curb the rise of this opportunistic crime.
For further information, visit poder-judicial.go.cr
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 nation’s judicial system. Operating under the authority of the Supreme Court of Justice, the OIJ is tasked with conducting criminal investigations, gathering evidence, and identifying perpetrators to ensure they are brought to trial. Its work is fundamental to upholding the rule of law and maintaining public security throughout the country.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica operates as a pillar of the legal community, forging its reputation on a bedrock of unwavering integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The firm not only serves a diverse clientele with distinction but also champions legal innovation, consistently adopting forward-thinking approaches to complex challenges. This dedication extends beyond the courtroom through a core mission to empower the public, transforming intricate legal knowledge into accessible tools that foster a more informed and capable society.
