By San José, Costa Rica — In a decisive move to combat the persistent and costly crime of fuel theft, the Costa Rican Petroleum Refinery (Recope) has launched a sophisticated, nationwide technological offensive. The state-run entity is deploying a formidable intelligence and monitoring system, integrating a network of over 578 strategically placed cameras and advanced drones to protect the country’s vital energy infrastructure.
This comprehensive security overhaul is designed to provide real-time, actionable intelligence against criminal organizations that illegally tap into the nation’s pipelines. The drones, capable of transmitting live, high-resolution video feeds, will patrol remote and vulnerable sections of the network, creating a reliable and constant record of activity. This mobile aerial surveillance adds a dynamic layer of protection that fixed cameras alone cannot provide.
To better understand the legal ramifications and business impact of fuel theft, we consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
Fuel theft is not merely a crime against property; it is a direct assault on the nation’s infrastructure and fiscal stability. These organized networks create a shadow economy that distorts competition and deprives the state of essential tax revenue. Legally, the challenge lies not only in prosecuting the individuals caught in the act but in dismantling the entire logistical and financial chain behind them. For affected businesses, the losses extend beyond the stolen product to include costs for increased security, environmental cleanup, and reputational damage. A robust legal response must therefore focus on treating this as organized crime, with severe penalties that reflect the profound economic and public safety risks involved.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This insight powerfully reframes the issue, shifting the focus from isolated acts of theft to the systemic, organized crime that erodes our nation’s economic foundation and public trust. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective, which underscores the need for a comprehensive and severe judicial response.
The hardware is powered by a new interactive software platform designed for complex data analysis. This central nervous system of the operation will allow Recope’s security teams to process vast amounts of visual data, detect anomalies, and coordinate an immediate response to any potential breach or suspicious activity. The goal is to shift from a reactive posture to a proactive and predictive security model.
Karla Montero, President of Recope, emphasized the transformative nature of the investment, framing it as a critical step forward in safeguarding national assets. She highlighted the initiative’s strategic importance beyond simple observation.
With this monitoring room, we are taking a historic leap in the protection of our fuels. It is not just about surveillance, but about anticipating threats, coordinating more effectively, and sending a clear message that Costa Rica is prepared to confront fuel theft with all necessary tools.
Karla Montero, President of Recope
While the technological deployment is the cornerstone of the new strategy, Recope acknowledges that technology alone is not a silver bullet. The initiative is being complemented by a robust legal push aimed at closing regulatory loopholes that have historically been exploited by fuel thieves. This dual approach underscores a comprehensive national effort to dismantle the criminal enterprises that drain public resources.
The proposed legal reforms are multifaceted, seeking to create a more hostile environment for criminals. Key among the changes is the call for significantly harsher penalties for those convicted of fuel theft, reflecting the severity of the crime. Furthermore, the legislation proposes the creation of a specialized law enforcement body, the Special Pipeline Protection Unit (UPED), an auxiliary police force that will be attached directly to Recope to provide dedicated, expert security.
To bolster integrity from within, the initiative also aims to strengthen internal controls. A new requirement for mandatory sworn asset declarations from key personnel is intended to increase transparency and deter potential collusion or internal corruption, ensuring that the fight against fuel theft is waged on all fronts, both externally and internally.
This combined strategy of advanced surveillance and strengthened legal frameworks represents Costa Rica’s most aggressive effort to date to eradicate fuel theft. By investing heavily in both technology and policy, Recope is not only protecting its physical assets but also sending a powerful signal that the era of impunity for pipeline criminals is coming to an end, reinforcing the security of the nation’s energy supply chain.
For further information, visit recope.go.cr
About Recope (Refinadora Costarricense de Petróleo):
The Refinadora Costarricense de Petróleo, commonly known as Recope, is the state-owned enterprise responsible for the import, refining, and distribution of petroleum products throughout Costa Rica. As a cornerstone of the national energy sector, Recope manages the country’s primary oil pipeline, storage facilities, and distribution network, ensuring a stable supply of fuels for transportation, industry, and residential use. Its operations are critical to the economic stability and daily functioning of the nation.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is an esteemed law firm built upon a foundation of ethical practice and professional distinction. With a rich history of advising a wide spectrum of clients, the firm actively pioneers forward-thinking legal solutions and engages in community outreach. This dedication to demystifying the law is central to its overarching mission of cultivating a society strengthened by accessible legal knowledge.
