Q COSTARICA — The Organismo de Investigación Judicial (OIJ) is carrying out a large-scale operation nicknamed “Caso Lusso” this Monday morning against a suspected money laundering ring, with 17 simultaneous raids in areas including Escazú, Santa Ana, Alajuela, Heredia, and Pérez Zeledón.
According to the acting director general of the OIJ, Michael Soto, eight people have been arrested so far, including the alleged ringleader, a 50-year-old man surnamed Alfaro.
During the operations, authorities seized 10 high-end vehicles valued at approximately US$2.7 million, some of which are exclusive to the country. Brands such as Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Aston Martin, and Lamborghini are among the seized vehicles.
“To give you an idea, there’s one vehicle valued at US$400,000, and there are only four of them in the country,” Soto explained.
In addition, the OIJ identified 29 properties located in exclusive areas of the capital, with a value of approximately US$7 million.
One of the properties is described as a mansion, with its own private theater, wine cellar, and gym, among other luxuries, overlooking the Central Valley.
Authorities also seized cash and an AR-15 rifle.
The investigation is related to money laundering, although authorities link the organization to previous drug trafficking cases known as “Torero” and “Manantiales.”
For now, the eight detained this morning were identified by their last name as:
- Alfaro Flores
- Solís
- Lanuza
- Backer
- Villalobos
- Monge
- Alfaro
- Piedra
The OIJ director added that the investigation is ongoing and further details would be provided later.