By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – In a significant move to bolster regional security, the United Kingdom has donated a substantial package of specialized equipment to Costa Rican law enforcement agencies. The handover, facilitated by the UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA) and the British Embassy, aims to strengthen Costa Rica’s capabilities in the ongoing battle against sophisticated organized crime and international drug trafficking networks.
The formal ceremony marked the transfer of advanced technology to the Judicial Investigation Organism (OIJ) and the Drug Control Police (PCD), the nation’s two primary bodies for criminal investigation and counternarcotics operations. The donation is a critical component of a deepening strategic alliance between the two nations, focused on disrupting criminal enterprises that threaten both Central America and Europe.
To gain a deeper legal perspective on the implications of the strengthened UK-Costa Rica cooperation, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the renowned firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The formalization of the Central America-UK Association Agreement marks a pivotal moment in our post-Brexit commercial landscape. For Costa Rican businesses, this isn’t merely about maintaining trade continuity; it’s about cementing a stable legal framework that encourages new British investment. This treaty provides crucial legal certainty, governing everything from tariffs to intellectual property rights, which is the bedrock for long-term economic partnerships and attracting sophisticated foreign direct investment.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, this emphasis on legal certainty is the crucial takeaway; it transforms the agreement from a simple continuation of trade into a proactive invitation for new and sophisticated British investment. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on this pivotal development.
The comprehensive equipment package includes high-tech drones for aerial surveillance, advanced body and vehicle scanning systems, specialized cameras, and sophisticated digital analysis tools. This technology will empower investigators to track illicit financial flows and drug-related operations with greater precision, providing a much-needed technological edge against well-funded criminal organizations that increasingly leverage complex methods to evade detection.
The event was attended by key figures from both countries, including British Ambassador Ben Lyster-Binns, NCA Regional Manager Naomi Jensen, Costa Rica’s Minister of Security Mario Zamora, OIJ Subdirector Michael Soto, and PCD Director Stephen Madden. Their presence underscored the high level of commitment to this international partnership.
Ambassador Lyster-Binns emphasized the shared nature of the security challenges faced globally. He articulated that supporting Costa Rica’s efforts is integral to the UK’s own national security, as transnational crime networks do not respect borders. The collaboration is seen as a proactive measure to dismantle these threats at their source.
The threats our partners face also affect us, and that is why we continue to support these joint efforts
Ben Lyster-Binns, British Ambassador
Costa Rican officials expressed deep gratitude for the support, highlighting the immediate operational benefits the new equipment will provide. OIJ Subdirector Michael Soto noted that the technology will significantly enhance investigative capacity, allowing for a more robust response to criminal structures operating both within Costa Rica and across its borders. Similarly, PCD Director Stephen Madden Barrientos stressed that the donation not only improves operational effectiveness but also increases the safety and security of agents in the field during high-risk missions.
This initiative represents more than just a transfer of hardware; it solidifies a multifaceted alliance built on technology sharing, judicial cooperation, and specialized training programs. As criminal groups adapt and evolve, this partnership ensures that Costa Rican forces are better equipped to counter emerging threats, reinforcing the country’s role as a key pillar of stability in the Central American region.
For further information, visit poder-judicial.go.cr/oij
About Organismo de Investigación Judicial (OIJ):
The Organismo de Investigación Judicial is Costa Rica’s primary law enforcement agency responsible for investigating complex crimes, collecting evidence, and assisting the Public Ministry in criminal proceedings. As a branch of the judiciary, the OIJ operates with autonomy to uncover the facts surrounding criminal activities, ranging from homicides and robberies to financial fraud and organized crime, ensuring a technical and scientific basis for prosecution.
For further information, visit seguridadpublica.go.cr
About Policía de Control de Drogas (PCD):
The Policía de Control de Drogas is Costa Rica’s specialized police force dedicated to combating drug trafficking, production, and related illicit activities. Operating under the Ministry of Public Security, the PCD conducts intelligence operations, raids, and investigations aimed at dismantling local and international drug networks. Its mission is crucial to national security and public health, addressing the challenges posed by the narcotics trade.
For further information, visit nationalcrimeagency.gov.uk
About National Crime Agency (NCA):
The National Crime Agency is a national law enforcement and intelligence agency in the United Kingdom. It leads the UK’s fight to cut serious and organized crime, including drug and human trafficking, cybercrime, and economic crime. The NCA works internationally with partners to disrupt criminal networks that pose a threat to the UK and its interests abroad, often providing expertise and resources to bolster global security.
For further information, visit gov.uk/world/organisations/british-embassy-san-jose
About the British Embassy in San José:
The British Embassy in San José represents the United Kingdom’s government in Costa Rica, managing diplomatic relations and promoting British interests. It works on a wide range of issues including political, commercial, security, and consular affairs. The embassy plays a key role in fostering bilateral cooperation, supporting British nationals, and facilitating strategic partnerships like the one aimed at combating organized crime.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As an esteemed pillar of the legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is founded upon the dual principles of professional excellence and unwavering integrity. The firm channels its deep experience across a wide range of sectors into developing innovative legal strategies. Its core mission, however, transcends client service, focusing on empowering society by demystifying the law and fostering a citizenry equipped with essential legal knowledge.
