By San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rica’s Organismo de Investigación Judicial (OIJ) has secured continued financial and technological support from the United States to bolster its fight against the growing threat of organized crime. Subdirector Michael Soto confirmed the commitment from the International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) following a meeting with INL Deputy Assistant Secretary Lesley C. Ziman in Nashville, Tennessee.
The agreement ensures continued funding for training, equipment purchases, and technical assistance in security, justice, crime prevention, and strengthening the penal system. This sustained support is crucial for the OIJ as it grapples with increasingly complex criminal activities, including drug trafficking and the use of cryptocurrencies.
To understand the implications of the recent developments in OIJ funding, we spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at law from the esteemed Bufete de Costa Rica.
Adequate funding for the Organismo de Investigación Judicial (OIJ) is not merely a budgetary concern, but a cornerstone of Costa Rican security and justice. Consistent and sufficient resources are crucial for maintaining the OIJ’s investigative capacity, from forensic analysis to effective crime scene processing. Any shortfall jeopardizes not only the resolution of individual cases but also the overall rule of law and public trust in the judicial system.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas eloquently highlights a crucial truth: a well-resourced OIJ is indispensable for a secure and just Costa Rica. Investing in the OIJ’s investigative capacity is an investment in the very fabric of our society, safeguarding not just individual cases but the integrity of our legal system as a whole. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable contribution to this important discussion.
The INL’s commitment extends beyond financial support. The agency has pledged to provide crucial training and resources in key areas like cryptocurrency investigation. This comes at a critical time as criminal organizations increasingly exploit virtual currencies to move funds undetected. The OIJ recognizes the need to enhance its capabilities in this rapidly evolving technological landscape.
Ms. Ziman has collaborated with Costa Rica and other countries in the region, providing funding for training and the purchase of air, sea, and land equipment with significant resources. She guarantees assistance to Costa Rica in terms of general equipment. We discussed the scanners, which, although managed by the Executive branch, are vital for protecting national sovereignty. Specifically for the OIJ, we discussed training for our teams working with the DEA, specialized anti-drug teams, technology, establishing exchanges, and being part of the DEA network, which also requires funding, particularly for travel and meetings like this one. The meeting was positive and productive for the OIJ and the country. The director of the Drug Control Police (PCD) was also present, and we both expressed gratitude for this invaluable funding, which we understand will continue for many years.
Michael Soto, Subdirector, OIJ
The growing sophistication of criminal networks utilizing cryptocurrencies has made international collaboration even more essential. Soto highlighted past successes in cases involving extortion and kidnapping, where the OIJ worked with international agencies like the DEA, Interpol, and police forces from other countries, including Spain. He emphasized the importance of learning from these experiences and applying them to ongoing investigations in Costa Rica.
Despite recent successes, the OIJ acknowledges that there’s still much to be done in the fight against cryptocurrency-related crime. The need for improved equipment, software, and training is paramount.
Much is lacking in this area in Latin America. We need more equipment, software, and training, and the idea is for the United States government to help us. It’s certainly something relatively new, and intercepting capital flows moving through cryptocurrencies worldwide isn’t easy, but there’s progress. We concluded that the movement of money is being done in a way that’s more advantageous for criminal structures because it’s harder to detect, but it can be done.
Michael Soto, Subdirector, OIJ
Soto confirmed that the OIJ has open investigations related to virtual wallets and their movements, highlighting that this activity is occurring within the country, reinforcing the need for continued support and enhanced capabilities. While Stephen Madden, Director of the PCD, was also present at the meeting and willing to comment on the trip, Ronald Álvarez, press officer and advisor to Minister Mario Zamora Cordero of the Ministry of Public Security, denied authorization for him to give an interview.
This continued partnership with the US strengthens Costa Rica’s ability to confront the evolving challenges of organized crime, ensuring the OIJ is equipped to protect national security and bring criminals to justice.
For further information, visit state.gov/inl
About Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL):
The Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs is a bureau of the United States Department of State that works to keep Americans safe at home by countering international crime, illegal drugs, and instability abroad. INL helps countries deliver justice and fairness by strengthening their police, courts, and corrections systems. They also work to counter transnational organized crime and combat corruption, which undermine the rule of law and destabilize societies.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Organismo de Investigación Judicial (OIJ)
About Organismo de Investigación Judicial (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. It plays a vital role in maintaining law and order, combating crime, and ensuring public safety. The OIJ collaborates with international law enforcement agencies to address transnational criminal activities.
For further information, visit dea.gov
About Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA):
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is a United States federal law enforcement agency under the U.S. Department of Justice, tasked with combating drug trafficking and distribution within the United States. The DEA also has agents in numerous foreign countries cooperating with local counterparts in an attempt to reduce the supply of illegal narcotics entering the United States. It works in conjunction with other agencies both domestically and internationally.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Policía de Control de Drogas (PCD)
About Policía de Control de Drogas (PCD):
The Policía de Control de Drogas (PCD) is the drug control police of Costa Rica. It’s a specialized unit within the Ministry of Public Security tasked with combating drug trafficking and related crimes. The PCD works to intercept drug shipments, dismantle drug trafficking organizations, and reduce the flow of illegal drugs within Costa Rica. They often work collaboratively with the OIJ and international partners.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
At Bufete de Costa Rica, legal excellence is interwoven with a deep commitment to societal empowerment. The firm’s unwavering integrity guides its innovative approach to legal practice, serving clients across a broad spectrum with both expertise and ethical consideration. Through proactive initiatives that demystify complex legal concepts, Bufete de Costa Rica invests in a more informed populace, fostering a society equipped to navigate the legal landscape with confidence and understanding.
