Menu
Search
Friday, April 3, 2026
Subscribe
Home Blog Page 21

The end of TPS comes as a “bucket of cold water” for Hondurans and Nicaraguans in the U.S.

By
Q24N
-
0

Q24N (EFE) The migrant community in the United States received Monday’s announcement of the cancellation of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for more than 70,000 Hondurans and Nicaraguans who have legally resided in the country for more than two decades “like a bucket of cold water.”

“It’s extremely regrettable,” Juan Flores, president of the Honduran immigration group Fundación 15 de Septiembre, told EFE.

Since taking office last January, US President Donald Trump has rescinded TPS for some 600,000 immigrants from seven countries, converting people who fled political crises and natural disasters into undocumented immigrants, despite complying with all legal protocols and requirements, the New York Immigration Coalition detailed this Monday.

For Hondurans, uncertainty grew in May when they awaited an official announcement on the extension of the program, which was set to expire that month. However, it never arrived, leaving beneficiaries without clear information about their future, Flores explained.

She added that as Hondurans, they also had high expectations following the signing, on June 25, of an immigration agreement between the US and Honduras, which followed a visit to the country by Kristi Noem, the US Secretary of Homeland Security.

That day, Honduran President Xiomara Castro signed the “safe third country” agreement with Noem, through which she committed to receiving asylum seekers from other countries before they reach the U.S. border.

The decision to cancel TPS, which will take effect in 60 days, took its beneficiaries by surprise: approximately 72,000 Hondurans and 4,000 Nicaraguans, according to the Federal Register, who now have until September 6 to seek an alternative to deportation.

According to Flores, conditions in Honduras do not allow for a safe return, information that, she said, is corroborated by the State Department’s own reports, which show that “there is corruption in the political class” of the country.

“The socialism being imposed by President Castro’s government, the persecution of the press, the violence, the lack of employment, and the lack of security,” according to Flores, are reasons that make Honduras eligible for TPS.

The “Brothers, Come Home” program, a recent Honduran government initiative that offers bonuses and basic assistance to deported migrants without addressing the structural causes such as violence, unemployment, and corruption that forced many to flee, has sent, according to him, “the wrong message to the international community that Honduras is already safe.”

Faced with this situation, Honduran organizations are already preparing to go to court. “We are going to do what was done in 2018. We didn’t want to go to court, but lawsuits are already being prepared,” Flores announced.

TPS is “temporary,” the White House warns

For the administration of US President Donald Trump, TPS is not eternal. “By definition, it is temporary. It is not intended to be a permanent path to residency or citizenship here in the United States,” White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said Monday.

He emphasized that since it was originally granted to these two countries in 1999 due to the devastation of a hurricane, it didn’t seem very temporary.

However, for the migrant association Alianza Americas, “the arguments used to justify the cancellation are false, malicious, and violate the law that created TPS: to protect people who cannot safely return to their countries of origin.”

Revoking TPS “puts the health, safety, and stability of thousands of families with mixed immigration status at risk,” warned Christian Aguiluz, director of America for All.

Murad Awawdeh, president and CEO of the New York Immigration Coalition, lamented that the Trump administration “is actively choosing to strip legal status from hundreds of thousands of people who have lived and worked in the United States for a long time, ruining lives, separating families, and destabilizing communities across the country.”

This new cancellation will force thousands of New York immigrants into legal limbo and risk, he said.

“I will continue to fight this other cruel attack on our immigrant communities,” said Letitia James, attorney general of New York, where thousands of Hondurans and Nicaraguans reside.

- A word from our sponsors -

Costa Rica faces economic slowdown with internal stability

By
Rico
-
0

Q COSTARICA — Costa Rica’s economy will slow its growth in the second half of the year, although the outlook will remain favorable.

For the remainder of 2025, the international context will remain uncertain, characterized by geopolitical risks and possible tariff increases between the United States and other countries. Both elements have the potential to generate complex scenarios for international trade, supply chains, and the prices of key raw materials, such as oil.

For the Costa Rican economy, the presence of these risks will imply a lower performance than expected. However, the outlook will remain favorable from the perspective of the country’s domestic conditions, namely, income growth, consumption, and investment, although with moderate gains in terms of job creation.

“At the international level, tariff and geopolitical threats point to a complex development for the remainder of 2025. Costa Rica, of course, is no stranger to this reality, and the economy will lose momentum in the second half of this year. However, domestic conditions in terms of income and consumption growth can still be considered favorable,” said Javier Cortés, supervisor of BN Valores Stock Exchange.

Main considerations for the remainder of 2025:

  • Economic growth: the slowdown will be more pronounced for exports of goods and services, while domestic demand will remain more stable.
  • Controlled inflation and stable interest rates: Inflation will remain within parameters acceptable to the Central Bank, which will likely imply stability for interest rates in colones and other indicators such as the Passive Base Rate (TBP).
  • Stable fiscal performance: The government’s financial deficit and public debt will be similar compared to 2024, which will contribute to the stability of other factors such as interest rates and the exchange rate.
  • Exchange rate: Foreign currency inflows into the country will moderate as export growth and other financial flows such as foreign investment slow; however, no marked upward movements in the dollar’s price are expected.

“It is important to keep in mind that the external economic environment is fragile, and changes that affect international trade, supply chains, or oil prices could impact key elements of the Costa Rican economy, such as inflation, the exchange rate, and economic growth looking ahead to 2026,” Cortés added.

If the international landscape shifts toward more complex scenarios, the outlook for the Costa Rican economy could be jeopardized. However, the possibility of a 2025 with still stable internal conditions seems plausible at this point in the year.

- A word from our sponsors -

Education, crime, and infrastructure may be driving away foreign investment

By
Rico
-
0

Q COSTARICA — Current levels of insecurity, the progressive weakening of the education system, and persistent infrastructure deficiencies are seriously compromising Costa Rica’s position as an attractive destination for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).

This was the warning issued by Professor Velia Govaere Vicarioli and Karen Jiménez Morales, head of the Police Science Program at the State Distance Education University (UNED), amid concrete signs of economic slowdown in key sectors such as tourism.

Govaere warned that maintaining the flow of FDI achieved in previous decades is no longer easy since, “although the country has distinguished itself by attracting investment thanks to the quality of its workforce and its democratic institutions, today it faces a more complex environment,” she noted.

“As other nations in the region strengthen their competitive advantages, Costa Rica is experiencing worrying lags. The difficulty in training and retaining qualified personnel, rising crime, and infrastructure deficiencies are making us a less attractive destination,” she added.

The tourism sector, one of the most dynamic sectors in the national economy, registered a 3% drop in visitor numbers during the first quarter of 2025. This decline is largely attributed to the country’s climate of insecurity.

Govaere noted that, in addition to the warnings issued by embassies such as the United States, which increase the perception of risk among tourists and investors, the strengthening of the dollar has also made domestic supply more expensive, worsening the outlook.

For the expert, this is not just a temporary problem, but a structural crisis that demands sustained measures over time.

“Improvements in education, citizen security, and infrastructure require significant investment and long-term results. Regaining lost ground will not be possible in the short term,” she warned.

Factors

Along the same lines, Karen Jiménez Morales emphasized that insecurity is a response to deep-rooted structural factors such as poverty, unemployment, and educational exclusion.

“These factors undermine community resilience and foster environments vulnerable to violence,” she explained.

While police institutions are making commendable efforts, their capacities are limited. Since 2022, the Ministry of Public Security has implemented a management model based on scientific evidence. However, for this to have a real impact, political support, adequate funding, and inter-institutional coordination are required.

Jiménez lamented that many public entities work in isolation, without coordination or common goals. “It gives the impression that institutions operate like islands. Without clear, conciliatory leadership that understands the problems, it will be difficult to make progress on effective prevention,” she noted.

Both experts agreed that Costa Rica is facing a turning point and that, if these challenges are not urgently addressed, the country risks losing its international reputation as a safe, stable, and reliable investment location.

 

 

- A word from our sponsors -

President Kennedy’s Costa Rica visit in 1963

By
Rico
-
0

In March 1963, United States President John F. Kennedy visited San José as part of the Alliance for Progress.

He was greeted by euphoric crowds in the streets of Costa Rica’s capital city, waved from an open-top car, and met with Latin American leaders in the majestic National Theater.

Kennedy also gave a moving speech to students at the University of Costa Rica in a historic visit that left its mark on Central America.

 

Watch the video and stills published by @britishpathearchive, a historical film archive holding the world’s finest newsreel collection, according to its Instagram page. It was a major film production and newsreel company in the early 1900s.

The Alliance for Progress was a 10-year plan proposed by President John F. Kennedy in 1961 to foster economic and social development in Latin America, aiming to counter communist influence. It was a major component of the Kennedy administration’s foreign policy in the region.

The main goal was to improve living standards, promote democratic governments, and counter the spread of communism in Latin America, particularly in the wake of the Cuban Revolution.

- A word from our sponsors -

New fuel price adjustment approved by Aresep

By
Rico
-
0

Q COSTARICA — New fuel prices are coming our way following approval by the Autoridad Reguladora de los Servicios Públicos (Aresep) – Public Services Regulatory Authority.

For the price change at the pumps, the approval notice has to be published in the official government publication, La Gaceta, expected in the coming days.

This change, according to the Aresep, is in response to fluctuations in international prices and the exchange rate.

Increase:

  • Premium or super gasoline: from ¢665 to ¢669
  • Regular gasoline: from ¢643 to ¢653

Decrease:

  • Diesel: from ¢530 to ¢527
  • LP Gas: from ¢7,460 to ¢7,210

Fuel prices are all the same at every gasoline filling station across the country.

For the list of current fuel prices in Costa Rica, see the Recope website here.

 

- A word from our sponsors -

Who is liable for damages in a traffic accident in Costa Rica?

By
Rico
-
0

Q COSTARICA — Traffic accidents are just part of everyday life in Costa Rica. Whether it’s a fender-bender or something far worse, every time we get behind the wheel, we’re rolling the dice.

According to Article 197 of Civil Liability, in any traffic accident in which the driver is not identified, the registered owner shall be held civilly liable for the consequences arising from the use, manipulation, possession, or ownership of the vehicle.

In such a case, the interested party may file a civil suit against the registered owner. The owner may release himself or herself from liability by providing a document proving that the vehicle was sold, transferred to a third party, stolen, or is not in his or her possession, prior to the traffic accident.

If the above is proven, the case must be filed against the new purchaser or possessor, and any other legally valid exceptions shall also be filed.

In accidents in which the driver is identified, the joint civil liability of the owner or possessor may be processed within the respective traffic proceedings, in accordance with the provisions of Article 199 of this law.

Pedestrians, drivers, and passengers of vehicles who are responsible for a traffic accident may be held civilly liable for any damages resulting from the accident.

The above also applies in cases, including the situation happened in Santa Ana on Friday when a heavy vehicle driver was moving his truck inside a private property and accidentally struck a utility pole.

The impact was strong enough to break the pole, causing it to fall onto the public street. Luckily, no one was on the road at the time—just moments before or after could have led to a disaster.

Ruta 121, just west of the rotonda (roundabout), was closed from just after 6 a.m. until nearly 8 p.m.

The Compañia Nacional de Fuerza y Luz (CFNL) estimates the cost to replace the pole and restore power at about ¢10 million colones. This doesn’t cover the expenses for cable companies and other utilities that use the line, nor the police resources needed to manage traffic. Given these facts, the driver and/or vehicle owner, who stayed at the scene, is responsible.

What happens if someone hits me and doesn’t want to or can’t pay?

If you are hit by a vehicle where the driver and/or owner has nothing or refuses to pay for the damages, and doesn’t count with the mandatory Marchamo (circulation permit) that includes third-party liability, there isn’t much to do but to take the hit and get on with your life, because you’ll never get paid.

In any case, the first line of defence to eventually get paid is calling the traffic police, who will make his or her report and issue a ticket. You can request a “perito” (insurance representative) to attend the accident. If one is not available, you can file the accident report with your insurance company within days of the accident.

Contacting a lawyer is an option, or do it yourself, to win the case in Traffic Court. Once the judgment is in your favor, you start the process to enforce that judgment which can include foreclosing or auctioning the defendant’s vehicle to cover the damages they caused. After that, you can ask the court to declare any remaining balance owed, which could lead to the seizure of wages or other assets.

The whole thing can take a while. And there’s always a chance the defendant might offer a settlement before it goes all the way through the process. But keep in mind, he who has nothing owes nothing.

- A word from our sponsors -

World Bank says Costa Rica is no longer “Upper-Middle-Income” and has become a “High-Income” country

By
Rico
-
0

Q COSTA RICA — According to the World Bank’s 2024 measurements, Costa Rica has transitioned from the “upper-middle-income” category to the “high-income” group of countries.

The international organization made this announcement on Tuesday, July 1, via a post on its website.

Each year, the World Bank classifies the world’s economies into four groups according to their income level:

  • Low (25 countries)
  • Lower-middle (50)
  • Upper-middle (54)
  • High (87)

This classification is based on Gross National Income (GNI) per capita expressed in U.S. dollars. To summarize, this indicator is calculated by adding all the incomes of the country’s inhabitants to the total population.

The World Bank indicates that it uses the Atlas method, a technique used to convert a country’s GNI from its local currency to US dollars for the purpose of comparing economic size across nations, to make this measurement.

According to the World Bank, the classification not only reflects a country’s level of development, but also its potential to influence its development trajectory.

“It affects eligibility for official development assistance and concessional financing,” states the World Bank’s publication on the classification in general terms.

Screenshot of the World Bank’s publication on July 1, 2025.

According to World Bank records, Costa Rica belonged to the lower-middle-income category since 1987 (the first on record) and moved up to upper-middle-income in 2000. Twenty-five years later, it moved to the highest category.

What happened to Costa Rica?

The World Bank highlighted the movements of some countries, including Costa Rica, whose economy has grown strongly recently, with an average growth rate of 4.7% over the last three years.

The publication states that by 2023, Costa Rica’s GNI per capita would be approaching the upper-middle-income threshold.

However, the 4.3% growth rate in 2024, driven by strong domestic demand (private consumption and investment), was sufficient for Costa Rica to move up a category.

Costa Rica’s GNI per capita is $15,620, according to World Bank calculations. This places it above the threshold for the highest income category, which was US$13,936 in 2024. In 2023, Costa Rica’s GNI per capita was estimated at US$13,850.

That threshold was moved to US$14,005 and US$13,935 per capita for 2025 and 2026. In both cases, Costa Rica would remain in that group; however, we will have to wait for the corresponding measurements for each of those years.

The World Bank explained that the trend is for the threshold to increase, as will occur from 2024 to 2025. However, in 2026, the threshold will decrease due to the appreciation of the US dollar against other currencies.

Costa Rica’s economy is expected to continue growing this year and next; however, it will do so at rates below 4%, that is, slower than in recent years.

 

- A word from our sponsors -

Yellow fever vaccination campaign to be held at the National Stadium

By
Rico
-
0

Q COSTARICA — Travelling without presenting a yellow fever vaccination certificate is the aim of the new campaign by the Ministry of Health to be held this month, given the limited availability of doses in the private market and the increase in people traveling to Colombia during July.

This decision responds to the Colombian government declaring a national alert on April 18 due to the increase in cases.

Vaccinations will be conducted exclusively at the National Stadium at various times throughout the month, by appointment only.

Interested individuals should request a spot using the form available at this link: https://www.ministeriodesalud.go.cr/citas/sin_citas.html

Yellow fever vaccination dates, between the hours of 8:00 am to 12:00 noon, are:

  • July 4 and 5
  • July 7 to 12
  • July 14 to 19
  • July 21 to 24

However, the foregoing vaccinations will only be available to people planning a trip to Colombia during the month of July, according to Mary Munive Angermüller, Minister of Health.

According to the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), 235 cases of yellow fever have been reported so far this year in the Americas, with a fatality rate of 41%. Brazil, Colombia, Peru, Ecuador, and Bolivia top the list of countries with the most cases.

Costa Rica’s Ministry of Health reminds people with planned trips to risk areas other than Colombia that they can continue to benefit from the previously announced temporary exception, which will be in effect until August 31, 2025. During this period, they can travel to Bolivia, Brazil, Ecuador, Guyana, French Guiana, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Venezuela, Trinidad and Tobago, and some African countries, without presenting a yellow fever vaccination certificate.

Yellow fever is a viral disease of typically short duration. In most cases, symptoms include fever, chills, loss of appetite, nausea, muscle pains—particularly in the back—and headaches. Symptoms typically improve within five days.

- A word from our sponsors -

Melbet Partners: Building a Scalable Income Stream in the Betting Industry

By
Carter Maddox
-
0

In today’s digital world, affiliate marketing has gone far beyond basic banner ads and random referrals. It has evolved into a data-driven business model, where precision, targeting, and analysis are key. And when it comes to combining these elements in the iGaming space, —- stands out as a top choice for those looking to build a serious revenue stream.

Let’s take a deeper look into why this program is more than just another affiliate offer — and how it can help you scale a sustainable online business.

The Shift from Side Hustle to Real Business

Gone are the days when affiliate marketing was considered a hobby. With the right tools and partners, affiliates now run full-fledged businesses with monthly earnings exceeding those of traditional jobs. The iGaming sector — especially sports betting — remains one of the highest-paying verticals, with consistent demand and a growing audience across the globe.

Melbet Partners offers exactly the kind of infrastructure and potential needed to support this growth. Backed by the internationally recognized betting platform Melbet, the program is designed not just to pay — but to scale.

What Makes Melbet Partners Different?

Many affiliate programs offer similar commission models. So what sets this one apart?

  1. Real-Time Analytics

Success in affiliate marketing is all about knowing your numbers. Melbet’s dashboard provides affiliates with real-time data on impressions, clicks, registrations, deposits, and revenues. This allows marketers to adjust campaigns immediately, test new channels, and maximize ROI based on accurate, live stats.

  1. Multi-GEO and Multilingual Reach

One of the standout features of the program is its truly global reach. Whether you’re targeting Brazil, India, Kazakhstan, or South Africa — Melbet offers localized landing pages, payment systems, and language support. This gives affiliates access to a wide user base that converts, especially in emerging markets.

  1. Scalable Payout Models

Affiliates can choose between:

  • Revenue Share (up to 40%)
  • CPA (fixed payout per qualified user)
  • Hybrid models (a combination of both)

This flexibility makes it easier to scale depending on your traffic type — whether it’s organic SEO, paid ads, or influencer content. For example, if you generate stable long-term traffic, RevShare might make more sense. For rapid paid campaigns, CPA ensures quick returns.

How to Monetize Smartly with Melbet

To succeed as an affiliate today, you need more than just a link and some hope. Here’s how savvy marketers are using —- to build long-term revenue streams:

  1. Focus on Niche GEO Campaigns

Don’t try to compete in oversaturated Western European markets. Instead, focus on GEOs with high demand and lower competition, like Central Asia or parts of Latin America. Melbet is already popular in these areas, which helps boost conversion rates.

  1. Build Micro-Content Funnels

Rather than sending cold traffic to the homepage, affiliates are building blog posts, YouTube videos, or Telegram threads discussing odds, match previews, or casino strategies — then subtly embedding the Melbet link. This improves user trust and leads to higher-quality referrals.

  1. Use Bonuses as Conversion Hooks

Melbet offers attractive promotions such as first-deposit bonuses, cashback offers, and free bets. Use these incentives in your creatives and landing pages to drive action. A simple banner with “Get 100% Bonus on Your First Bet” can significantly improve CTR and conversions.

Who Can Benefit from Melbet’s Affiliate Program?

You don’t have to be a media buying wizard or own a massive email list to benefit from Melbet. The program suits:

  • Content creators: Bloggers, vloggers, TikTok creators
  • SEO specialists: Running niche review sites or betting predictions
  • Social media influencers: Especially in Telegram, Facebook groups, or Instagram
  • Email marketers: With segmented lists in relevant regions
  • Paid traffic professionals: Running ads on native, push, or pop networks

Whether you’re just starting or already scaling, the tools are there — it’s about using them strategically.

Melbet’s Support System: Behind the Scenes

Another advantage is the level of affiliate support offered. Each partner gets access to a dedicated account manager who can:

  • Recommend top-performing GEOs
  • Assist with creatives and banners
  • Optimize your commission model
  • Provide weekly or even daily performance tips

In a competitive vertical like iGaming, having real-time support can be the edge that drives profitability.

Weekly Payouts: A Major Plus

Many affiliate programs pay monthly, or with long delays. Melbet Partners, on the other hand, processes payouts weekly — giving affiliates faster access to funds and better cash flow for reinvestment into ads or content production.

Withdrawals are available through popular payment methods including:

  • Bank transfers
  • E-wallets like Skrill or Neteller
  • Cryptocurrencies such as USDT or Bitcoin

This flexibility is especially valuable for affiliates working across multiple countries or operating remotely.

Final Thoughts: Why Melbet Partners Deserves Attention

If you’re looking for a reliable, flexible, and data-oriented affiliate program in the online betting space, melbet partners offers one of the best environments to grow in. From powerful analytics to localized campaign tools, it supports a full spectrum of affiliate needs — whether you’re an influencer, media buyer, or content strategist.

Best of all, it isn’t just about promoting a product — it’s about building a system that pays you over time.

So if you’re ready to stop chasing one-off affiliate payouts and start building a scalable, performance-driven income stream is where you should start.

- A word from our sponsors -

Meet Costa Rica’s presidential candidates for the 2026 elections

By
Rico
-
0

Q COSTARICA — On February 1, 2026, in seven months, Costa Ricans will be deciding at the polls who will be the next president of Costa Rica.

Although it is still too early to predict a winner, it is clear that none of the candidates are ruled out.

In the last three presidential elections, Luis Guillermo Solís, Carlos Alvarado, and Rodrigo Chaves were all below the polling margin of error at some point in the campaign, meaning they were never favorites and ultimately won overwhelmingly in a second round against the candidates of the Partido Liberación Nacional (PLN) and Nueva Republica.

To date, there are 12 presidential candidates, including Laura Fernández of the Chavista party.

In all cases, insecurity, employment, the health crisis, and urban mobility problems are the issues that most concern the candidates.

“We must have the intelligence and courage not only to confront, but to build lasting solutions with real results.” says Natalia Díaz, a candidate for the Unidos Podemos party, who presents herself as the next step after the government of Rodrigo Chaves.

A huge free trade zone

For his part, Juan Carlos Hidalgo of the Patido Unidad Social Cristiana (PUSC) dreams of turning Costa Rica into a huge free trade zone and thus bringing development to every corner of the country.

“We have to align the definitive regime with the special regime, but not by eliminating the free trade zones, as some would like, but rather by making all of Costa Rica a free trade zone,” said Hidalgo.

For his part, Luis Amador of Partido Progreso Social Democrático (PPSD) – the party that won the presidency in 2022  through the candidacy of Rodrigo Chaves – speaks of “using grandma’s jewels” to generate more resources by exploiting natural gas and the beachfront so that the State has more money.

Finally, Claudia Dobles of the Partido Acción Cuidadana (PAC) – wife of former President Carlos Alvarado – dreams of a US$1.5 billion electric train, and Ariel Robles of the Frente Amplio (FA) announces a national dialogue to seek solutions to the crises in education, security, and health, while pointing out that the Ministry of Finance cannot continue to dictate education policy.

Registration with the Tribunal Supremo de Elecciones (TSE) for the 2026 presidential elections will close on October 17. Thus, all the presidential candidates already known are pre-candidates until the TSE closes the registration process.

The presidential candidates already known listed alphabetically:

  1. José Aguilar Avanza
  2. Fabricio Alvarado***
  3. Claudio Alpízar Esperanza
  4. Luis Amado
  5. Natalia Díaz**
  6. Claudia Dobles
  7. Laura Fernández*
  8. Eliécer Feinzaig**
  9. Juan Carlos Hidalgo
  10. Álvaro Ramos
  11. Ariel Robles**
  12. Fernando Zamora

* Has not yet confirmed her participation
** Ran in 2022
*** Perennial candidate who wants to be president some day

Presidential elections

Every four years, Costa Ricans choose through elections the president, two vice-presidents, and the members of the legislature. The president and vice-presidents serve four-year terms and are directly elected by the people. The Legislative Assembly has 57 members who also serve four years, elected through a system where political parties present ranked lists of candidates, and seats are distributed based on each party’s share of the vote in the country’s seven provinces.

The President of Costa Rica is chosen through a tweaked two-round setup: a candidate needs to get at least 40% of the vote to win right away. If nobody hits that mark, the top two vote-getters face off in a runoff.

From 1969 and 2005, presidents were not allowed to run for reelection. But when the Supreme Court struck down that ban in 2005, it opened the door for former presidents to run again — as long as they waited at least eight years after their term ended.

While voting is technically required for all registered citizens under the country’s constitution, this rule isn’t actually enforced.

 

- A word from our sponsors -

¢500 and ¢50 coins of the previous design will lost their value on July 1

By
Rico
-
0

Q COSTARICA — On Tuesday, July 1st, the old ¢500 and ¢50 coins officially stopped being valid for payments, just like the Central Bank of Costa Rica (BCCR) had announced.

Those old coins now need to be swapped or deposited at banks and other financial institutions, as they’re being replaced by a new, smaller bimetallic coin.

The BCCR made it clear that the new ¢500 and ¢50 coins are good for any purchase across the country, no matter what’s on the back, and it’s still worth their face value.

The Central Bank is handling both the rollout of the new coins and the removal of the old ones through the country’s financial system.

Why the change?

The BCCR explained that swapping out the coins is part of a bigger plan to boost the security and efficiency of the currency.

Here’s what they focused on:

  • Making coins smaller and lighter, so they’re easier to carry around.
  • Using better metals—copper-based alloys mixed with others—to make the coins tougher against corrosion and easier for machines to recognize.
  • Adding alternating metallic colors to help tell coins apart quickly: ¢10 is silver; ¢25 gold; ¢50 silver; ¢100 gold; and ¢500 a silver-and-gold combo.
  • Updating the design to celebrate Costa Rica’s culture and history, with the front showing the coin’s value and the back featuring a special commemorative image.
  • Improving security with advanced alloys and detailed engraving that balance art and anti-counterfeiting features.
These are the new coins
Despite several publications on social networks, this coin DOES NOT EXIST in Costa Rica asserts the Central Bank

 

Transparency Note: This article was written with the help of artificial intelligence tools to process available information. The content is based on verifiable sources and has been reviewed for accuracy and clarity.

- A word from our sponsors -

Costa Rica is nearing the end of its population growth

By
Rico
-
0

Q COSTARICA — Population projections already estimated that Costa Rica will never reach 6 million inhabitants, but rather, that the population will gradually decline.

The starting point, as revealed by the National Institute of Statistics and Census (INEC) on Monday, already has a date: 2044 will be the date when “the national population begins to decline.”

The analysis is now divided at the cantonal level, and practically half of the localities have activated the demographic alert.

This is because it is expected that by 2044, 41 cantons will already have a declining population. That same year, three more municipalities would join the list. In contrast, only 21 cantons are expected to add more residents in the coming decades.

Which points are worth noting?

The INEC’s numerical review is already focusing on various cantons based on the demographic scenarios they are painting.

They highlight:

  • Montes de Oca (San Pedro) is already the canton with the highest aging rate: for every 100 people under the age of 15, there are 121.5 aged 65 and over in 2025. By 2050, this ratio is projected to triple, reaching 399.7.
  • Sarapiquí is the canton with the lowest aging rate by 2025. It has 23.7 people aged 65 and over for every 100 people under the age of 15. By 2050, this ratio will triple to 71.5.
    Corredores, Matina, and Naranjo will be the cantons with the highest decline in the population by 2044, when the decline becomes official nationwide.
  • Los Chiles is the canton with the highest demographic dependency ratio for people under 15 years of age compared to people aged 15 to 64. Currently, the indicator is 43.4. The ratio decreases to 27.8 children under 15 years of age per 100 people aged 15 to 64 by 2050.
  • San Mateo has the highest adult demographic dependency ratio. There are now 22.5 people aged 65 and over per 100 people aged 15 to 64.
  • Tibás will continue to be the most densely populated canton. Currently, it has 10,338 people per habitable square kilometer, and by 2050, the number will be 10,203.
  • Osa is and will remain the least densely populated canton. In 2025, the population rate is 15.3 per habitable square kilometer, and it will be 14.0 by 2050.

These trends are likely to shake up which areas have the biggest and smallest populations. Right now, in 2025, San José—the capital—has the largest population, with Alajuela and Desamparados coming next. But by 2050, Alajuela is expected to overtake San José as the most populated canton.

Why is Costa Rica’s population rising or falling?

The INEC explains that various sociopolitical variables are at the heart of its conclusions.

“They are based on the observed behavior of indicators of the components of demographic change: fertility, mortality, and migration across different geographic units, districts, cantons, provinces, and regions, disaggregated by sex and age,” they note.

They also explain that aspects such as life expectancy at birth and the changes brought about by the pandemic are taken into account.

“When comparing life expectancy at birth in 2019 (the year before the pandemic) with 2021 (the year of the pandemic’s greatest impact), Guanacaste was the province with the greatest loss of life expectancy at birth: 3.8 years; while Cartago had the lowest loss, at 2.3 years,” they explain.

“This impact was differential by sex; the male population, in general, was the most affected,” they add.

According to the INEC, the projections should be used to plan regionalization and the services that the population will demand.

Transparency Note: This article was written with the help of artificial intelligence tools to process available information. The content is based on verifiable sources and has been reviewed for accuracy and clarity.

- A word from our sponsors -

Vehicular restrictions of San José will be lifted for 10 days

By
Rico
-
0
Road controls are common during the vehicular restrictions. Avoid the sanctions, leave the car at home on the restricted day

Q COSTARICA — Less traffic congestion and more fluid movement of traffic is how it will feel to travel through San José between July 7 and 18, when vehicular restrictions of the capital city, based on license plate numbers, will be suspended during the mid-year school break.

The measure responds to the decrease in traffic in the capital that occurs whenever public school and college students are on vacation.

The suspension will apply for 10 business days.

The last restriction before the break will be on Friday, July 4, for license plates ending in 9 or 0, and will resume on Monday, July 21, for license plates ending in 1 or 2.

“During these 2 weeks, the movement of people in the city decreases because many parents do not take their children to school and take advantage of the time to take vacations. Added to this is the absence of teachers, administrative staff, and school cafeteria providers,” explained Sánchez.

Furthermore, with fewer pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles in the capital, some Transit personnel may be reassigned to work on routes out of the Central Valley, as part of special operations for the holidays.

Keep in mind that the vehicle restriction normally applies to the entire Circunvalación ring road, Monday through Friday between 6:00 am and 7:00 pm, with the exception of the new section between La Uruca and Calle Blancos.

That said, the drop in traffic is already clear, with many people taking their mid-year break now that many both public and private schools have already started their mid-year break.

 

- A word from our sponsors -

Minister of Justice waives his immunity to allos investigation to his ties to Celso Gamboa

By
Rico
-
0

Q COSTARICA – The Minister of Justice, Gerald Campos, waived his immunity on Monday in order to submit to an investigation for alleged crimes of embezzlement and ideological falsehood, in a case linking him to former magistrate Celso Gamboa.

The decision to waive the immunity he holds as a member of the Executive Branch was communicated in a letter addressed to the President of the Legislative Assembly, Rodrigo Arias, 20 minutes after the Full Court agreed to forward the request to lift his immunity submitted by the Attorney General’s Office to Congress.

In total, 17 magistrates voted in favor of sending the case to the Legislative Assembly, while five voted against it.

“To guarantee the broadest possible transparency and the full conduct of the hearings to be held before the Criminal Cassation Court, I hereby make available to this Assembly my irrevocable decision to waive any immunity from prosecution I may hold,” Campos stated in the letter.

According to the official, his objective is to facilitate the prompt clarification of the facts and contribute to the rule of justice.

The leader of the ruling party, Pilar Cisneros, confirmed the document had been sent to the President of Congress.

The case against Campos dates back to 2016, when he held another public office. The case involves alleged excessive travel expenses and irregular overtime payments. The investigation indicates that, along with his then-bodyguard—an official named Jara—Campos authorized irregular payments while performing official duties.

According to information published by CRHoy.com, the bodyguard earned ¢5.8 million in overtime between April 2016 and January 2017, as well as ¢800,000 in travel expenses.

The Prosecutor’s Office believes this could be a misuse of public funds.

Although the case was initially processed before the Second Judicial Circuit Trial Court of San José, when Campos assumed the position of minister, the case was transferred to the Attorney General’s Office, which had to follow a special procedure because he is a member of the supreme powers.

Now, with the waiver of his immunity, Gerald Campos becomes the first minister of the current government to voluntarily submit to this type of judicial process.

 

- A word from our sponsors -

Why didn’t Costa Rica prosecute Celso Gamboa for drug trafficking?

By
Rico
-
0

Q COSTARICA — The arrest of Celso Gamboa was not the result of an improvised action. Behind them was a silent and sustained operation that lasted more than a year, coordinated by the Organismo de Investigación Judicial (OIJ) and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).

It all began with a formal arrest warrant issued by a federal prosecutor in the state of Texas and validated by a U.S. judge. This request was channeled through the Costa Rican Foreign Ministry, which in turn forwarded it to the Supreme Court of Justice for approval.

“The request officially arrived on Monday morning, June 23. By 9 am, the Foreign Ministry had already validated it. At around 11 am, the Supreme Court’s Secretariat forwarded it to the respective judge, and at that time we received the go-ahead to proceed,” said Randall Zúñiga, director of the OIJ, in an interview with the program Asiento Extra

But the OIJ didn’t wait for the formal order. They already knew the request was on its way and deployed undercover personnel two days earlier. One group was stationed in Escazú, where Gamboa lived.

Another team was in Cahuita, Limón, to follow ex-convict Edwin López Vega, alias Pecho de Rata. who was also arrested on Monday.

The surveillance was intended to ensure that both men could be located when the court order was executed.

The first arrest occurred in Cahuita. “At around 12 noon, we found him (López Vega) having lunch. We waited until a few people were around and arrested him at 12:30 pm,” Zúñiga said.

López Vega was immediately transferred to San José, while the second operation was underway in Escazú.

Gamboa was intercepted around 6 pm as he was leaving a client’s house. “We intercepted him with a car in front and another behind him so that he couldn’t move. We asked him to get out of the vehicle, but he couldn’t open the lock, apparently because he was nervous,” the OIJ chief explained.

Once outside the vehicle, he was handcuffed. At that moment, Gamboa thought it was a local judicial matter. But when he received notification that the arrest was in response to a DEA extradition request, his reaction changed.

“That’s when he completely lost his temper. That’s a nice way of putting it… but his reaction was obvious,” Zúñiga said.

The big question that arose after the arrests was: why didn’t Gamboa face criminal proceedings in Costa Rica sooner?

Zúñiga explained it frankly: “Since he was removed from office as a judge (in 2018), we began monitoring him, for fear that he would leave the country. Then, in 2019, he was acquitted due to doubts in a trial for influence peddling. We don’t agree with that ruling; we believed there was sufficient evidence.”

The head of the OIJ added that opening a local investigation against Gamboa would have meant handing the file over to his lawyers, which could hinder the process.

“We saw that the most viable option was to work the case with the DEA. Here (in Costa Rica), they would likely have imposed mild precautionary measures. However, since this is a case of international drug trafficking, the DEA could act more forcefully,” he stated

The collaboration with the DEA began in 2022, under the direction of Walter Espinoza. There was already confidential information pointing to Gamboa, and a more effective channel was being sought to ensure real judicial consequences.

“Don Walter, with foresight, said: let’s talk to the DEA. And so it was. I don’t rule out that they were already working on the case,” Zúñiga acknowledged.

Gamboa and López could become the first Costa Ricans to be extradited to the United States, following the reform of Article 32 of the Political Constitution, approved on May 15, 2025. This amendment allows for the extradition of nationals for drug trafficking or terrorism offenses.

Both Gamboa and López Vega face charges of international drug trafficking and money laundering.

According to the DEA, Gamboa allegedly led a drug cell operating in Costa Rica, with connections to Colombia’s Clan del Golfo and the Sinaloa Cartel in Mexico.

- A word from our sponsors -

Celso Gamboa claims to suffer from cancer, mental health problems

By
Rico
-
0

Q COSTA RICA — Former magistrate and minister, Celso Gamboa, currently detained and facing extradition on allegations of being a drug trafficking kingpin in Central America—based on two complaints from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)—shocked many by claiming to be battling cancer and mental health issues.

On his third day in detention (he was arrested on Monday), awaiting a decision on his possible extradition to the United States.

In a court document, the former prosecutor, former minister of security in one government, former vice-minister of security in another, and former director of the DIS, Costa Rica’s intelligence service, magistrate of the Third Chamber of the Supremse  Court, and Deputy Attorney General, alleges a series of conditions:

  • Colon cancer
  • Celiac disease
  • Skin cancer
  • Personality disorder
  • Anxiety
  • Duodenal ulcers
  • Stomach problems due to gastritis
  • Insomnia
  • Depressive disorder
  • Giulán Barret disorder

In the request, he added that he “takes medication for all his ailments” and requires a special diet.

Finally, he stated that for this reason, he is requesting a transfer to another prison, also taking into account his professional background.

“He hereby requests that for his safety, he be transferred to the Centro de Atención Institucional (CAI) Jorge Debravo, in light of his former duties,” the document adds.

Celso Gamboa served as prosecutor, deputy minister, and later Minister of Security, director of the Intelligence and Security Directorate, and magistrate of the Third Chamber of the Court.

The Judiciary confirmed that Gamboa made the request.

 

Gamboa is ordered to two months’ imprisonment

On Monday, Celso Gamboa became the first person arrested for extradition purposes, along with a man named López known as “Rat Chest.”

According to the Organismo de Investigación Judicial (OIJ), the request for the detentions was made by a Texas court for alleged international drug trafficking activities, following extensive investigations by the DEA.

“The DEA profiles the former prosecutor as a regional leader of the Gulf Cartel, one of the oldest transnational criminal organizations in Mexico, dedicated to large-scale drug trafficking,” Crhoy.com reported.

The investigation would give him a significant profile and connections to other groups.

“His role was as a leader or representative of the Cartel with influence in Guatemala, Honduras, Panama, and other locations. Allegedly, the lawyer coordinated the acquisition of cocaine directly with the Clan del Golfo de Colombia (CDG),” Crhoy.com states, according to the information obtained.

Finally, it attributes other alleged international logistical functions.

“According to the DEA, Celso Gamboa had connections with members of that group and other drug traffickers, both Colombian and Panamanian, to ensure he acquired the illicit product. He then worked with other partners within Costa Rica to deliver and store the drugs. They were subsequently distributed from Honduras and Guatemala to Mexico and the United States,” they conclude.

To this, they also add a possible relationship with another Honduran group, which ended with his accusations toward the United States.

Regarding Gamboa’s role, they maintain that it apparently “extended from Colombia and reached northern countries like Mexico and the United States, passing through Central America.”

Gamboa’s profile is highly public given the variety of positions he has held in recent years.

During Laura Chinchilla’s administration, he served as Deputy Minister of Security and Director of Intelligence. With the arrival of Luis Guillermo Solís, he rose to Minister.

From there, he moved to the Prosecutor’s Office as second-in-command and in 2016 crowned his career with his election as Magistrate of the Supreme Court. He held that position until 2018, when he was dismissed amid the “Cementazo” corruption scandal.

 

- A word from our sponsors -

Government takes action against lower prices!

By
Rico
-
0

Q COSTA RICA — The Government of Costa Rica responded by filing a complaint with the Public Prosecutor’s Office and introducing a bill that would create a mechanism to stop the entry of products at prices lower than those of local growers.

The government complaint with the Public Prosecutor’s Office is against an onion importer, who allegedly reported that he purchased the product at lower prices than he had to pay in Costa Rica, where it was produced.

This is called under-invoicing.

Through this action, by nationalizing the imported product onions, the importer manages to pay a lower amount of tariffs, which causes damage to tax revenue, and also sells to consumers at a lower price.

The Minister of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG), Víctor Carvajal, reported that the complaint was filed through the General Directorate of Customs of the Ministry of Finance. In the reported case, the damage to public finances is estimated to be greater than US$10,000, the threshold required to file a complaint.

Carvajal explained to the Legislative Assembly faction leaders that this not only generates negative consequences in terms of tax revenue, but it also creates “unfair competition.”

For example, in the case in question, onion imports were found with a reported cost of ¢179 and ¢161 per kilo, while the local product costs much more.

The Minister explained that a price below ¢300 per kilo is ruinous, at least for domestic production, as that is the minimum cost of producing a kilo in Costa Rica.

So, a huge amount of onions are coming in from abroad because of the high cost in Costa Rica and a weak exchange rate. If this keeps up, by 2026, half the onions consumed in Costa Rica could be imported. Currently, the figure is approximately 15%.

In other words, imported onions are replacing domestic production.

“There is a very significant amount of domestic produce that is being lost and will not be able to be sold,” the minister explained to the legislators last Thursday (June 19). “There is an increase in the number of imports due to these situations,” he added.

The MAG Minister explained that onions and potatoes are the products most affected by this phenomenon, but it can affect any vegetable. Four other cases are under investigation.

How can this be corrected, that is, consumers not having access to lower prices?

The government introduced Bill 25.025, which seeks to reform the General Customs Law, allowing customs officials to detain products with irregularities in their reported data before entering the country. In this way, they never reach the domestic market.

Currently, the process for nationalizing agricultural merchandise consists of:

  • The importer submits information that allows Customs authorities to estimate the duties to be paid based on the invoice provided by the imporer. This data is sometimes altered.
  • The next step is to conduct technical inspections, such as phytosanitary (disease) inspections.
  • Other duties payable are calculated, and if they are paid, the product enters the country.
  • Subsequently, Customs technical teams investigate whether the price reported by the importer is irregular, but by then, the product has already reached the market, that is sold.

The Reform

The reform proposed by the Executive Branch (Government) would create a formula that, upon entering the data provided by the importer in step 1, would generate an alert if irregular prices are found. According to Carvajal, there is sufficient information from international markets to accomplish this task. If this is the case, the product will be detained and prevented from entering the country.

In short, the change consists of verification being done prior to the product’s entry, rather than afterward, as is currently the case.

When presenting the bill to the legislators, the MAG Minister explained that the largest number of imports of this type coincides with domestic harvests. This means that when massive imports arrive, the domestic supply is also high, making it very difficult for domestic producers to compete. The price cuts they ultimately make to sell their harvest could lead to financial ruin.

The next period of abundant domestic harvest is scheduled for October and November 2025. The minister believes changes must be made before then to prevent the phenomenon from impacting that period again and also to curb this type of behavior.

“A lot of assets are at risk,” Carvajal said, referring to farms, loans, and domestic production that could remain unsold due to the high imported supply.

 

- A word from our sponsors -

Costa Rica finally joins the U.S. Global Entry program

By
Rico
-
0

Q COSTA RICA — On Wednesday, Costa Rica finally entered the United States’ Global Entry program, which expedites the entry of travelers.

The announcement was made by Kristi Noem, United States Secretary of Homeland Security, after meeting with President Rodrigo Chaves at Casa Presidencial in San José.

Noem noted that the plan will benefit a country like Costa Rica, which bases part of its economy on tourism.

“A few minutes ago, we signed the Global Entry agreement. As you know, your economy depends heavily on tourism. Many Americans come here to relax and enjoy themselves. Global Entry will allow travelers an expedited approach,” Noem said.

United States Secretary of Homeland Security,
 Kristi Noem, United States Secretary of Homeland Security during her visit to Costa Rica on Wednesday, June 25, 2025

Noem indicated that the first Costa Rican to be granted this pass is  President Rodrigo Chaves.

“I made the decision that the president will be the new person from Costa Rica to receive Global Entry,” said the U.S. spokesperson.

It is important to note that this program is not yet running, as authorization takes four to six months to complete.

Since 2020, Costa Rica has begun the process of becoming part of the Global Entry program.

The United States Customs and Border Protection Agency is leading this initiative, which is aimed at citizens of certain countries with prior approval and a low level of risk.

Global Entry is operational at more than 80 airports and points of entry in the United States.

The Global Entry program does not replace the visa requirement, but it does expedite the immigration process, generally avoiding the need to wait in line at checkpoints.

With this initiative, Costa Rica joins a select list of 16 countries that have agreements with the United States government (meaning their citizens can apply).

According to official information from the United States government and airlines, such as United, those interested in the Global Entry program must apply in advance, and it costs approximately US$100.

The United States Secretary of Homeland Security also told the press that this is her first time in Costa Rica, but she plans to come to the country with her family to vacation.

- A word from our sponsors -

Newest Covid variant causing ‘razor blade throat’ is already circulating in Costa Rica

By
Rico
-
0

Q COSTARICA — The new COVID-19 variant, commonly referred to as “razor blade throat,” a sublineage of the omicron variant, Nimbus (NB.1.8.1), classified as VUM (variant under monitoring) by the World Health Organization (WHO), is circulating in Costa Rica.

Data from the Costa Rican Institute for Research and Higher Education in Nutrition and Health (Inciensa), as of June 17, confirm that of 262 samples this year, it has been detected in one, representing 0.38% of the total.

As the name implies, infection may lead to an incredibly painful sore throat, as if their throat is covered with razor blades, according to experts, who detailed that while not specific to Covid-19, this expression has been used to describe sore throat symptoms

Other symptoms, though, are more typical of a Covid infection, including fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath, and the loss of taste or smell.

Rest, fluids and painkillers are the best remedies for the painful symptom.

The circulation of this and other variants coincides with an increase in confirmed cases and hospitalizations due to COVID-19 in Costa Rica.

According to the Ministry of Health, during epidemiological week 24, (from Sunday, June 8 to Saturday, June 14, 2025) it reported: 231 new cases, an increase of 15.5% compared to the previous week and 39 hospitalizations, including two patients in the ICU, representing a weekly increase of 30%.

So far in 2025, there have been 15 deaths from the COVID-19 disease.

Since last month, Costa Rica has had an updated COVID-19 vaccine, formulated to combat recent variants.

Roberto Arroba of the National Vaccination and Epidemiology Commission stated: “This new vaccine has the ability to protect us against the viruses that are currently circulating.”

The Ministry of Health has purchased more than 700,000 doses, which are available at public health centers.

- A word from our sponsors -

Sala IV orders the release and determination of immigration status of individuals sent by the U.S.

By
Rico
-
0

Q COSTARICA — Costa Rica’s Constitutional Court of Sala IV ordered the release of the migrants deported to our country by the United States and still being held at the Temporary Migrant Care Center (CATEM).

“By majority, the appeal is partially granted, and Jean Paul San Lee Lizano, in his capacity as Acting Director General of Immigration and Foreigners, or whoever holds that position, is ordered to issue the necessary orders, coordinate the relevant actions, and make the corresponding arrangements within the scope of his or her powers, so that within 15 calendar days following the communication of this ruling, in relation to the foreigners deported from the U.S. and admitted by Costa Rica due to the cooperation agreement between the two countries, through a final, individual and reasoned decision, each person’s immigration status is determined and they are released.

“At the same time, within that same period, he or she must coordinate with the relevant public entities to assess the situation of each of these individuals in order to determine what type of health, education, housing, and, in general, social assistance they require from the State,” the Constitutional Court’s ruling states.

The ruling follows with: “Furthermore, the appeal regarding the alleged violation of the right of access to public information was dismissed, and it was clarified that the decision to allow entry for reasons of humanity is a political act beyond the control of constitutionality. The State was also ordered to pay damages resulting from the appealed acts.”

The Deportees

Earlier this year, a group of 200 migrants was deported by the United States to Costa Rica, specifically to the CATEM facilities in Corredores de Puntarenas.

The first group, consisting of 135 people, arrived in the country on February 20, landing at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO). All were authorized exceptional and temporary entry, without having to comply with the usual immigration procedures, thanks to an agreement negotiated by President Rodrigo Chaves with the US government.

Read more: 65 children and two pregnant women among the arrived in Costa Rica deported from the US

Costa Rica’s immigration service, the Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería (DGME), detailed that the US conducted an individual analysis of each person, ruling out links to terrorist groups or Interpol alerts. Furthermore, all expressed their willingness to return to their countries of origin.

Days later, on February 25, a second group arrived, consisting of 65 migrants.

The migrants had arrived to the United States from countries such as Afghanistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, China, Georgia, Ghana, Iran, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Russia, Turkey, Uzbekistan, India, Congo, Nepal, Yemen, and Vietnam.

Migrants still in the country

On June 12, Omer Badilla Toledo, Deputy Minister of the Interior and director of the DGME, reported that 33 migrants from the original group remained in Costa Rica.

Badilla indicated that these individuals have freedom of movement within the country and the option to regularize their immigration status.

Extension in force

On April 21, a resolution was published in La Gaceta, by which the DGME extended the period of stay for this group, extending the original document.

According to the original resolution, the migrants could remain for three months, with the possibility of an additional extension for the same period, at the discretion of the institution. After this period, they must leave the country or begin a regularization process, in accordance with current regulations. Concerns of the Ombudsman’s Office

Defensora de los Habitantes (Ombudswoman) Angie Cruickshank emphasized that, according to international treaties, Costa Rica cannot deport people to countries where their lives are in danger. She also highlighted that few of the deported families wish to return to their country of origin.

One of the main problems identified by the Defensoría (Ombudsman’s Office) is the lack of clear information for deported migrants, who are unaware of their legal status in the country.

“They are not people who have committed any crime and, therefore, are not deprived of their liberty; they should be able to move if necessary, but they tell us that, if they request it, they must be protected,” Cruickshank stated.

The Ombudsman’s Office also expressed concern about the conditions at CATEM, which houses both migrants deported from the US and people in transit, the majority now seeking to return to their countries, such as Venezuela and others.

Although they receive medical care and food, the Ombudsman’s report warns that multiple deficiencies persist that must be addressed.

 

- A word from our sponsors -

DEA investigation points to Celso Gamboa as the Gulf Cartel’s coordinator in Central America

By
Rico
-
0

Q COSTARICA — Celso Gamboa, who once served as magistrate of the Sala III of the Supreme Court, as Deputy Attorney General, Minister of Security, Vice Minister of the Presidency, Director of Intelligence and National Security (DIS), and former Vice Minister of Public Security, is today behind bars, at the behest of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration for being the representative of the Gulf Cartel in Central America.

Sources close to the case have confirmed the role attributed to Gamboa stated in the extradition request processed by the DEA with Costa Rican authorities, in their efforts to bring the Costa Rican to trial in a Dallas, Texas, court.

The investigation identifies Gamboa as the apparent representative of the Cartel del Goffo (Gulf Cartel), which operates in Guatemala, Honduras, Panama, and other locations.

This criminal group, dedicated to drug trafficking and related crimes, is considered a terrorist organization and the oldest criminal network in Mexico. However, the document does not elaborate much on Gamboa’s role or his ties to the core or leadership of the Mexican cartel.

It also points to the existence of international connections between the politician and lawyer and his accomplices, with whom he apparently maintained contact and coordinated operations without leaving the country.

According to records from Costa Rica’s immigration service, the Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería (DGME), Gamboa has not left, not legally in any event, Costa Rica since May 2019.

Allegedly, the Costa Rican communicated through cell phone calls and chats, in which illicit business dealings and the logistics of transporting drugs were discussed.

Two former associates of Gamboa, Honduran nationals already extradited to the United States, reportedly provided these revelations and evidence linking Gamboa to the transnational drug trafficking network to the DEA.

The investigation alleges that Gamboa committed at least two crimes. The first is conspiracy to manufacture and distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine, with the intent, knowledge, and reasonable cause to believe that the drug would be illegally imported into the United States, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, sections 959(a), 960, and 963.

The second charge is the alleged manufacture and distribution of five kilograms or more of cocaine with the same intent, knowledge, and reasonable cause, as well as his participation as an accomplice, in violation of Title 21, section 959, and Title 18, section 2 of the United States Code.

The former Minister of Security and former magistrate of the Criminal Cassation Court, and once an advocate of the extradition of Costa Ricans, did not accept voluntary extradition and was placed in provisional detention (remand) for two months, along with Edwin Danney López Vega, alias “Pecho de Rata” following the detention by the Organismo de Investigacion Judicial (OIJ) at the request of the DEA and a U.S. court.

The pretrial detention period will allow a Costa Rican judge to formally process the extradition request.

Gulf Cartel

The Gulf Cartel, whose origins can be traced to 1984, is one of Mexico’s oldest criminal organizations. At its peak, its leader, Osiel Cárdenas Guillén, was considered the most powerful kingpin in the Mexican underworld.

However, in recent years, it has lost power and influence due to internal divisions among rival factions, as documented by Insight Crime.

These factions continue to control key areas of the US-Mexico border, especially in areas near the Gulf of Mexico. In recent years, they have benefited from the increase in migrant smuggling across the border.

Their strategic position at several border crossings has given them a historic advantage in smuggling drugs such as cocaine and methamphetamine into the United States, and high-caliber weapons and cash into Mexico.

When Juan García Ábrego took over his uncle’s drug trafficking business, then a modest marijuana and heroin operation, negotiated a deal with Colombia’s Cali Cartel, a powerful criminal organization seeking new routes to the US market after being affected by the US offensive in the Caribbean.

The deal was irresistible to both parties: García Ábrego would be responsible for crossing cocaine shipments across the Mexican border, assuming the risks, and keeping up to 50% of the profits.

By the time he was extradited to the US in January 1996, the Gulf Cartel was generating billions of dollars in annual revenue. That money was smuggled back across the border in suitcases, jets, and underground tunnels.

The organization built a distribution network that reached cities like Houston, Atlanta, New York, and Los Angeles. Its influence also set a precedent for other groups.

Drug lords like Amado Carrillo Fuentes, alias “El Señor de los Cielos,” head of the Juárez Cartel, soon followed in García Ábrego’s footsteps, demanding greater control over distribution and higher profits from their Colombian partners.

The drug lord was captured in 2003 after the U.S. State Department offered a US$2 million reward for his arrest. His former security force evolved into Los Zetas, the most violent legacy of the Gulf Cartel.

Today, the cartel no longer exists as a unified organization. It is fragmented into several factions competing for criminal economies in Tamaulipas.

Among them are the Ciclones, the Escorpiones, the Rojos, the Metros, and the Panteras. These groups control border crossings, which they use to traffic drugs, weapons, and migrants, among other illicit activities.

Although the Escorpiones and the Ciclones wield the greatest power, the golden age of the Gulf Cartel under García Ábrego is over.

Celso Gamboa

According to statements from former associates of Celso Gamboa and DEA informants, as well as other evidence gathered by the agency, the Costa Rican allegedly became a sort of regional coordinator for the cartel, with influence in several Central American countries.

To achieve this, he allegedly allied himself with one of his former clients and convicted drug trafficker, Edwin López Vega, alias Pecho de Rata, who was arrested along with Gamboa on Monday.

Gamboa held the highest positions in public office, including Minister of Public Security and Supreme Court Justice.

The documentation alleges that Celso Gamboa provided logistical support to two Hondurans linked to the La H gang, who have already been extradited to the United States, where they face charges for international drug trafficking. This organization tapped into Gamboa’s expertise and supposed sway within Costa Rica’s National Coast Guard Service and port scanner management, drawing on his background in both the Executive and Judicial branches of Costa Rica’s government.

However, the DEA’s request indicates that Gamboa allegedly betrayed his associates, providing information to US authorities, which led to the capture and extradition of this criminal cell operating in the Costa Rican Caribbean.

According to the file, after the arrest of the foreigners, Gamboa assumed control of the operations alongside another individual with experience in illicit activities, thus consolidating his position within the criminal structure.

The politician.  Celso Gamboa, son of a former Minister of Justice, has held several of the most important positions in combating crime and insecurity in Costa Rica. In the Public Ministry, he began as an assistant to the attorney general and later served as a prosecutor in towns such as Siquirres, Limón, and the Southern Zone.

The defence lawyer. More recently, Celso Gamboa has defended high-profile drug traffickers in Costa Rica, such as Pancho Villa, Turesky, Pecueca, Press, Pecho de Rata, and even Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro, identified by the U.S. as the leader of the Cartel de los Soles.

On May 29, an update to Costa Rica’s Constitution went into effect that allows the extradition of Costa Ricans.

 

 

- A word from our sponsors -

Can AyA cut off water service to customers who are reporting irregular amounts?

By
Rico
-
0

Q COSTARICA — Users daily report irregular charges on their drinking water bill by the Instituto Costarricense de Acueductos y Alcantarillados (AyA).

The cause has not yet been confirmed by the utility, but for now, it is suspected that it could be due to a new methodology issued by the regulatory body, the Autoridad Reguladora de los Servicios Públicos (Aresep), which the AyA is now using to apply the charges.

AyA reported that 38,000 customers could initially be affected. However, the regulator general, Eric Bogantes, fears the impact could have spread to meters that supply more than one home on a lot. This means that the impact of the irregular charges could be greater.

What to do in these cases?

If you are one of those affected, the first thing you should do is go to the nearest AyA office and file a complaint. It is not important if the water service is not in the name of the person paying the bill, such as in the case of rentals or shared service.

The utility, with the service identification number (NIS), will receive the complaint and investigate. However, it needs to be noted that only the ‘owner’ of the service will be informed of the decision, irrespective of who filed the complaint.

Bogantes explained that all bills have a due date, and if the person hasn’t paid or filed a complaint before that date, the institution could still enforce the payment.

A user who disagrees with the amount has the right to a proper investigation to determine the cause and adjust the amount, if necessary.

“As long as there is a pending issue in the system, the cutoff order shouldn’t be generated,” Bogantes said.

This can be troublesome for tenants or users of a shared service not named on the bill, as the decision by the AyA may come much sooner than given at the counter when filing the complaint, affecting the service which could be cut while the user waits a reply that will never come to them, rather to the owner of the service, who in turn may not inform his or her tenant.

This could be detrimental for the user, but very lucrative for the water utility as it charges a disconnection AND reconnection charge.

If the user is not satisfied with the way the complaint is resolved, they should go to the AyA Services Comptroller’s Office. In the case of tenants, they will have to ask the owner to make the case. As a last resort, customers can file a complaint with Aresep until the previous steps have been completed.

Irregular charges in most cases are due to faulty meters and water leaks inside the property, to which the AyA no longer enters the property to investigate the cause of the leak.

In the case of a leak past the meter, the user needs to repair or contract a service to effect the repair and notify the AyA. The work is at the cost of the user and notifying the AyA will allow them to assess the complaint and adjust the billing accordingly.

González noted that by filing a complaint, “its status is claimed and technically does not allow a suspension order.”

As mentioned earlier, the notification of the decision will be sent to the owner of the service, effectively canceling the do-not-suspend order, and the bill will automatically become due and payable.

It is essential to check daily for any changes in the billing to avoid having your service suspended and additional charges.

- A word from our sponsors -

OIJ investigates possible influence of the Ortega-Murillo regime in Costa Rica to commit crimes

By
Rico
-
0

Q COSTARICA — Costa Rica’s judicial police, the Judicial Investigation Agency (OIJ), will investigate the possible presence of an arm of the Daniel Ortega and Rosario Murillo regime that could be operating on Costa Rican soil to commit crimes against opponents in exile.

Roberto Samcam, a retired former Nicaraguan military commander and one of the most vocal critics of the dictatorship, was murdered by at least two people inside an apartment complex where he lived in San Vicente de Moravia last Thursday.

Randall Zúñiga, director of the OIJ, told the press, while it would be premature to conclude that the crime was orchestrated by the Ortega-Murillo government, this is a possibility being considered and will be investigated to rule out or confirm it.

Investigators are now trying to find the perpetrators of the murder: both the gunman who entered the apartment to kill Samcam and his accomplice.

The investigations will also focus on determining who planned and ordered the murder.

In the recent past, another attack was carried out against Joao Maldonado, a young Nicaraguan man whose opposition voice has resonated, and who was attempted to be assassinated in San Pedro de Montes de Oca in January 2024.

“As a precedent also occurred in Costa Rica, a few months ago, in a case that has already been clarified by the OIJ, another activist opposed to Daniel Ortega’s regime was attempted to be assassinated and shot multiple times.

“This person managed to survive this attack. Therefore, the OIJ is taking both cases with all due seriousness, and we hope to soon have some results,” said Zúñiga in public statements on the day of Samcam’s murder.

In the past, the OIJ has detected the presence of foreign criminal forces operating on national soil, primarily structures linked to international drug trafficking.

Roberto Samcam was murdered inside his home located in a residential area near Plaza Lincoln, on the east side of San José, when a gunman knocked on his door and killed him with at least eight shots to the chest and extremities.

At least two people are believed to be involved in the attack. The gunman and his accomplice were reportedly circling the residential area in a vehicle where the victim lived.

Warnings

Before being assassinated, the retired Nicaraguan Army major publicly denounced the existence of a cell of hitmen operating out of the Nicaraguan embassy in San José.

As he revealed in an interview with Darío Medios Internacional, the Ortega-Murillo regime had deployed intelligence agents to monitor and attack Nicaraguan opponents who had taken refuge in Costa Rica.

According to Samcam, this clandestine network, protected by the diplomatic structure, was composed of officers sent from Managua through the Dirección de Información para la Defensa (DID), Nicaragua’s Directorate of Defense Information, the intelligence agency of the Nicaraguan Army.

The operations had allegedly intensified after the repression of the April 2018 protests, which led to the migration of thousands of Nicaraguans to Costa Rica.

The opposition leader identified a structure with more than 20 officials without visible official positions. Samcam asserted that embassies and consulates function as espionage centers with institutional cover, and that some members of these cells were identified, causing them to retreat or return to Nicaragua.

He also stated that one of the most alarming cases was the attack on Joao Maldonado and his wife, an action he described as typical of this organization’s modus operandi: locating, following, and hiring hitmen to carry out the attack.

“They sent people to locate and try to cause harm. (…) Public denunciation is our only weapon,” Samcam asserted, noting that the Rodrigo Chaves government has denied the existence of this cell.

However, he warned that Costa Rica’s crime rates are used to camouflage political attacks as simple acts of violence.

Nicaraguan Leaders Denounce Persecution

Óscar René Vargas, economist, sociologist, and political analyst, is a veteran of the political struggle and one of Nicaragua’s most prominent and respected academic voices.

He went from being part of the Sandinista National Liberation Front (FRN) and saving Daniel Ortega’s life to exile in Costa Rica, from where he has criticized and denounced the regime formed by the commander and his wife, co-president Rosario Murillo.

Vargas was one of the last people to see Samcam alive. They shared lunch with a third friend at an establishment near La Sabana, after Roberto returned to the country after two months of visiting his children and siblings.

Óscar René did not hesitate to hold the dictatorial regime responsible for the murder and publicly condemned Ortega and Murillo for ending the life of the opposition leader.

In an interview with CRHoy, he also asserted that there is an operation on Costa Rican soil to repress or eliminate voices that have denounced the regime’s actions.

“I think so. That’s a problem here, but what I believe is that this is a problem for the security of Costa Rica itself.

“Given the type of action, this is the work of hired assassins. I don’t think it’s the same people (as the masterminds of the murders), but it could also arise like the Maldonado case.

“It could be Costa Ricans who are bought off with money. The problem is that this hired assassination also has some connection to drug trafficking in Costa Rica.

“The Ortega dictatorship is using these types of people to carry out political actions, and this creates a security problem not only for those of us in exile here, but also for Costa Ricans themselves,” stated Óscar René Vargas.

Prior to his murder, Samcam informed the DIS that he was being pursued

At least one investigative agency, the Dirección de Inteligencia y Seguridad (DIS) – the Directorate of Intelligence and Security, an agency attached to the Ministry of the Presidency, was informed by Samcam about his safety concerns

After the OIJ concluded its investigation at the crime scene, Claudia Vargas, Samcam’s wife, in tears and, in a brief address to the press, recalled that she and her husband both shared concerns with the DIS for his safety.

She also hinted that they believe the crime may have been politically motivated, as her husband had no personal conflicts beyond his outspoken stance against the Nicaraguan regime.

“I remember him as coherent, I remember him as strong. Roberto had a powerful voice and he also directly denounced the dictatorship. He never engaged in any wrongdoing, or anything at all.

“His focus was the promotion of human rights in Nicaragua and the constant denunciation of what was happening,” Vargas stated, who also expressed her gratitude for the messages of solidarity and asked for space for the family.

 

- A word from our sponsors -

A ruling by the Sala IV creates uncertainty about access to the list of tax defaulters

By
Rico
-
0

On June 9, the Constitutional Court, also known as Sala IV, announced the elimination of a paragraph from the Code of Tax Norms and Procedures (CNPT), which in turn raised several questions regarding the public’s handling of the list of companies in arrears with the Ministry of Finance.

Although the full ruling has not yet been made public, and tax attorneys are urging calm to first understand the scope of the resolution, they also acknowledge some uncertainty on the matter.

The fifth paragraph of Article 18 bis was the one annulled by the judges.

Essentially, it was a legal directive that would allow the public to know the names and amounts on the list of delinquent companies with the tax administration until due process was completed and a final judgment was issued.

With the change, all this information could be accessed regardless of whether there are legal claims from those affected by disputes with the Treasury.

“The Court has ruled that this provision of the Code is unconstitutional; therefore, this rule has been removed from our legal system. The elimination of this restriction would allow any person, following the regular procedures, to request information on any tax debt that the Tax Administration intends to impute to a taxpayer (whether genuine or not), regardless of the status of that alleged debt,” said Adolfo Sanabria, a tax attorney at Consortium Legal.

Thus, the advance disclosure of delinquency could lead to: exclusion of taxpayers from public procurement processes; pressure to pay non-final debts, avoiding being listed as delinquent; and also government costs for interest on refunds if the Court revokes tax adjustments.

The claim was part of a constitutional action filed by ANEP.

Call for calm

The ruling does not mean that tax secrecy has been eliminated overnight.

Grettel Rodríguez, legal manager at Grant Thornton, indicated that with the current vote, it is possible to question whether information about delinquency could be disclosed even before the debt became final.

However, she clarified that the key issue is when the debt falls into the delinquency category, since “if the debt cannot be collected, it cannot become delinquent.”

In this sense, several provisions in the tax code clearly define when a delinquency occurs.

First, Article 40 establishes that obligations arising from a resolution must be paid within 30 days of the date it was notified; that is, after the appeal before the Administrative Tax

Meanwhile, Article 80 of the CNPT states that late payment interest must be paid 15 days after the 30-day payment period has expired, while Article 192 of the same code warns that it is not possible to certify the existence of a tax debt for enforced collection until the Administrative Tax Court issues a ruling or finalizes the resolution.

“Thus, if a taxpayer only becomes delinquent when the resolution establishing the additional fee becomes final and the deadline for payment has passed, in practice it would not be possible to provide information about a taxpayer who is delinquent even after the administrative procedure has concluded, since at that point they cannot be considered delinquent,” the expert explained.

In any case, all tax experts emphasize the need to await the full ruling of the Sala IV and thus understand the full scope of the resolution.

 

- A word from our sponsors -

Shocking! Bow Miner cloud mining income revealed: XRP earns $20,000 a day, ETH earns $35,000 a day, and BTC is even more amazing!

By
Carter Maddox
-
0

Say goodbye to traditional mining and welcome the new era of smart wealth

Imagine lying on a beach chair, drinking an iced drink, while your crypto assets are generating income for you 24 hours a day. This is not a fantasy –  AI cloud mining makes it a reality! With AI-driven cloud mining technology, you can achieve anonymous and automated wealth growth without professional knowledge or expensive equipment.

Why choose Bow Miner?

  1. Register and get $15 start-up capital immediately
  2. 24-hour non-stop mining operation, a real “ly earn money” experience
  3. 100% green energy mining, environmentally friendly and efficient
  4. Military-grade security protection, worry-free fund security
  5. Support: BTC, XRP, DOGE, ETH and other mainstream digital currencies
  6. AI dynamically optimizes computing power, automatically selects high-yield currencies, and maximizes profits

Safe and reliable · Global enjoyment

We rent the computing power of the world’s top data centers, and the advanced AI system monitors the market dynamics of 200+ cryptocurrencies in real time 7×24 hours, intelligently switches to the optimal mining strategy, and automatically avoids market volatility risks, so that your income continues to grow steadily. The platform uses multi-signature cold wallet storage and SSL encryption + 2FA authentication, cooperates with regular third-party audits and real-time transaction monitoring, and builds a 72-hour risk protection mechanism to ensure the absolute safety of assets. Global users enjoy 0-delay withdrawal services, truly realizing “security without borders, zero waiting for income”!

As Michael T., a Singapore user, shared: “After using Bow Miner, my passive income soared 300%!” Sarah K., an American investor, also said: “The operation is so simple that even my mother can easily make money!”

Three steps to start your wealth journey

  1. Visit the official website to complete the registration, no mining machine or technical experience is required, and you can start with $15
  2. Choose a suitable AI smart contract, choose according to your budget, and invest flexibly!
  3. Wait for the income, which will be automatically credited to your account every day, and you can withdraw cash without worry:
  • Flexible investment plan (latest version in 2025)
  • Entry-level: investment amount: $100, contract period: 2 days, maturity income: $100 + $4
  • Advanced level: investment amount: $500, contract period: 5 days, maturity income: $500 + $31.5
  • Professional level: investment amount: $3,000, contract period: 15 days, maturity income: $3,000 + $675
  • Whale level: investment amount: $50,000, contract period: 42 days, maturity income: $50,000 + $40,530
  • Institutional level: investment amount: $500,000, contract period: 50 days, maturity income: $500,000 + $550,000

For more contract details, please visit the official website: —

If you are looking to create financial freedom through passive income, Bow Miner offers an exciting opportunity worth exploring. With potential earnings ranging from $100 to $1 million per day, scalability and innovative technology, it is an attractive option for anyone who wants to grow their wealth easily. Act now to seize this golden opportunity and let AI work for your wealth!

The cryptocurrency market is booming, and smart people are already earning passive income with Bow Miner, what are you waiting for?

 

- A word from our sponsors -

Coopeservidores unsecured depositors get partial payment on their savings

By
Rico
-
0

Q COSTA RICA — The Banco Popular y de Desarrollo Comunal (BP) announced the successful deposit of more than US$5.8 million and ¢52 billion colones to more than 5,500 savers who held amounts exceeding ¢6 million colones, following the closure of the Coopeservidores savings and loan.

This action is part of the recovery strategy initiated after the cooperative’s intervention.

The funds were credited to more than 7,000 deposits previously authorized by Banco Popular, following the schedule announced on June 10 and authorized by the Consejo Nacional de Supervisión del Sistema Financiero (CONASSIF) – National Council for the Supervision of the Financial System.

Read more: Coopeservidores is officially declared “unviable”

According to official data, this transfer has recovered at least 63.44% of the original balance corresponding to unsecured deposits.

“This new stage of the process reaffirms our commitment to financial stability and to those who trusted the system. We have acted efficiently and professionally to support thousands of individuals, families, and organizations,” stated Gina Carvajal, General Manager of Banco Popular.

Since assuming a significant portion of Coopeservidores’ portfolio in 2024, Banco Popular has established itself as a pillar of stabilization in the Costa Rican financial system. The operation, which exceeds ¢451 billion colones, has already benefited more than 170,000 people across the country, under coordinated management.

In addition to disbursements, the Bank maintains an active financial education and support program for affected clients, as well as credit readjustment options with a social focus.

 

- A word from our sponsors -

Veranillo de San Juan will not occur in Costa Rica in 2025, says IMN

By
Rico
-
0

Q COSTARICA — The traditional decrease in rainfall during the rainy season known as Veranillo de San Juan (Veranillo) or “Indian Summer”, is not expected in Costa Rica this year.

According to the national weather service, the Instituto Meteorológico Nacional (IMN), this is due to wetter and more unstable conditions that will continue the rains through the week of June 24.

According to Daniel Poleo of the IMN’s Climatology Unit, next week is not expected to see the usual interruption in rainfall between June 23 and 25.

“It (Veranillo) consists of a brief pause in the rains, especially in the Central Valley and the North Pacific, occurring around June 24, the date on which San Juan Bautista (Saint John the Baptist) is celebrated,” Poleo explained.

“However, this year we are going to have quite rainy conditions associated with the proximity of the Intertropical Convergence Zone. It is expected to be quite humid, and the trade winds will not be as pronounced as they normally are around the Indian Summer,” the expert reported.

These conditions will maintain a high humidity atmosphere, with sunny mornings and rainy afternoons, preventing a temporary interruption in the rains.

Does the Veranillo always occur?

Historical data shows that each year, in the last two weeks of June, there is a 60% chance of the Veranillo.

While there is only a 15% chance that, when it occurs, it will be of severe intensity, typically 7 or more consecutive dry days.

“It gets this name because it presents dry, sunny days (or very little rain); that is, conditions similar to the dry season for a few days,” indicated the IMN.

Scientific Support

Although the term “Veranillo” (a diminutive of “verano”) was originally used colloquially, IMN climate analyses have shown that it does exist.

“It has been shown that there is indeed a decrease in rainfall around June 24th in the Central Valley and the North Pacific, which are the two regions where this Indian summer season occurs,” Poleo emphasized.

 

- A word from our sponsors -

Is Costa Rica losing the battle against violence?

By
Rico
-
0

Q COSTARICA — As we near the midpoint of 2025, Costa Rica is headed toward a third record year for violence and homicides.

As of Tuesday, June 17, there were 412 murders, three more than the same period last year.

Last weekend alone, there were 11 murders, including two triple homicides.

If the rate of 2.45 homicides per day continues, by the end of December, the number of murders for the year would be about 900, a figure close to the all-time high of 907 cases in 2023.

The majority of the violence is related to a dispute between criminal groups over territory for the distribution and sale of illegal drugs, according to authorities from the Organismo de Investigacíon Judicial (OIJ).

Given this situation, various political actors are questioning the work of the Rodrigo Chaves government and believe that the actions taken to date have been insufficient and ineffective, to the point that they argue that Costa Rica is losing the battle against drug trafficking.

Difference in Approach

“The 11 homicides in two days should lead us to deep reflection, but above all, to make a vehement, respectful, and urgent call to all the country’s police forces to coordinate their actions, so that they can confront organized crime together, since we see that with ordinary action we have not managed to reduce homicides in our country,” said Gilberth Jiménez, president of the Legislative Security and Drug Trafficking Commission.

To date, the current administration has stated that it is urgent to change the laws to prevent dangerous and repeat offenders, who repeatedly commit illegal acts, from walking free.

“Let’s leave behind the myth of the poor and the lack of opportunities that some people, like legislator Gloria Navas, propose. There is no way to solve the crime problem in the short term other than isolating individuals who are seen as unlikely to be rehabilitated. We have made some progress, but we still lack, for example, the extension of pretrial detention for certain crimes that pose a danger to society. We can’t continue hugging those who shoot,” Chaves has said in the past.

However, some believe that insecurity is not combated by increasing prison sentences, but rather by preventive actions and increased investment in social and educational areas, as advocated by independent legislator Navas.

This difference in approach has led President Chaves to abandon the dialogue table with the Legislative Assembly, the Supreme Court of Justice, the Attorney General’s Office, and the OIJ, while accusing the Judiciary of promoting an approach of benevolence and protection of criminals.

Spike on Weekends

On the other hand, Randall Zúñiga, director of the OIJ, warned of a marked spike in homicides on weekends, warning of a lack of “territorial control” in known conflictive areas.

Zúñiga added that this is because the judicial police cannot carry out raids on weekends or after 6:00 pm.

President Chaves vetoed the bill that had been passed, which would have enabled judicial authorities to work around the clock instead of just on weekdays and only after 6:00 am and not past 6:00 pm. The reasoning behind the veto was that it could potentially “infringe  the constitutional right to the inviolability of the home, as well as other constitutional principles.”

Read more: President Chaves vetoes a bill allowing OIJ and prosecutor’s office raids at anytime

“Since it was announced that the OIJ lacks the direct authority to carry out raids on weekends, or after 6:00 p.m., we have seen this upswing in homicides that have been occurring on these weekends,” Zúñiga concluded.

Violence continues

In the past four years, violent crime, such as homicide, has spiked from the 588 recorded in 2021 to 654 in 2022, and almost doubled to a record of 907 in 2023. The record dropped some in 2024, closing the year with 880 homicides.

As stated previously, if the current trend continues, it is projected that there will be 895 homicides in 2025, surpassing the number from last year and potentially breaking the record set in 2023.

Main causes of insecurity in Costa Rica

Many believe organized crime, temptations, shortages, and the provocation generated by ostentation appear to be the triggers for many crimes in Costa Rica, rather than unmet basic needs, poverty, and social marginalization.

 

- A word from our sponsors -

Older residents of Santa Ana experiencing a process of gentrification

By
Rico
-
0

QCOSTARICA — Older residents of Santa Ana, Costa Rica, are experiencing gentrification, and its effects can be particularly challenging for this demographic, characterized by rising housing costs and the influx of higher-income residents, leading to displacement and social isolation for those who have deep roots in the community.

Over the past two decades, the canton of Santa Ana has transformed from the quiet farming town many remember to one of the epicenters of the country’s most rapid real estate development.

Towers, luxury condominiums, corporate centers, and shopping malls now define an urban landscape that reflects a profound transformation: a silent but evident process of gentrification.

This phenomenon, which was only recently discussed, has changed not only the canton’s physical environment but also its social and economic fabric.

An Accelerated Transformation

Since the 1990s, the canton of Santa Ana has been subject to intense real estate pressure. Its proximity to San José and its direct connection to Escazú, Route 27, and high-profile free trade zones have made it fertile ground for residential development aimed at upper-middle- and high-income sectors, both domestic and foreign.

According to data from the Instituto Nacional de Vivienda y Urbanismo (INVU) – National Institute of Housing and Urban Development, Santa Ana is among the cantons with the highest urban land appreciation in the last decade.

Furthermore, recent real estate sector studies place it among the cantons with the highest prices per square meter in the entire country.

What is gentrification?

Gentrification is an urban process in which areas traditionally inhabited by low or middle-income people undergo transformation through private investment that raises land values ​​and attracts more affluent sectors. As a result, original residents struggle to remain in their current location due to the rising cost of living.

In Santa Ana, this phenomenon manifests itself in multiple ways: from the displacement of families who can no longer afford rent to the transformation of traditional streets into high-density urban axes.

Between progress and exclusion

The areas of the Pozos, Uruca, and Lindora districts are clear examples of the canton’s new face.

Vertical developments, luxury shops, private clinics, and designer cafes proliferate in them. But there are also tensions.

In addition to rising land prices, the arrival of foreign residents—mostly North Americans, Europeans, and, to a lesser extent, South Americans and, more recently, digital nomads—has contributed to changing cultural dynamics, commercial preferences, and even the language displayed on some signs or menus.

What’s being lost?

The influx of foreigners and the expansion of luxury real estate projects have profoundly changed local identities. Businesses, fairs, services, and public spaces that once served the needs of the community now cater to the tastes of visitors and new residents.

For example, some local activities and small local businesses are losing ground to an urban model that prioritizes anonymity, exclusivity, and high added value.

Despite this, the local government has been implementing activities to ensure local people maintain their roots through weekly events where they display their products, such as the Mercado de Abasto Solidario.

What can be done?

Sociology experts warn that it is necessary to establish urban policies that promote housing inclusion, the recovery of public space, and the right to the city for all people, not just those who can afford the current high market prices.

Santa Ana is, without a doubt, an emblematic case of the urban development model that Costa Rica is adopting in its GAM. But it is also a wake-up call: progress cannot be measured solely in towers, shopping centers, and added value.

True development must ensure that no one is left out of their own home.

 

- A word from our sponsors -

“Loyalty No Longer Pays Off Under the Ortega-Murillo Regime”

By
Rico
-
0

Q24N (Confidencial) For former guerrilla commander Dora María Téllez, the illegal arrest and rushed conviction of retired General Álvaro Baltodano—once one of Daniel Ortega’s closest political and economic allies—represents more than just a political purge. It’s proof, she says, that in today’s power structure, loyalty no longer pays.

“Being loyal to Daniel Ortega—or even to Rosario Murillo—no longer comes with any reward,” the historian said in an interview on Esta Semana, broadcast on Confidencial’s YouTube channel.

Baltodano wasn’t just any official. He was part of Daniel Ortega’s “inner, iron circle.” His downfall sends a clear message to the Sandinista leadership: “Anyone who isn’t part of the Ortega-Murillo family will end up in ‘El Chipote’ or ‘La Modelo,’ accused of anything,” warned the exiled and denationalized political prisoner Dora María Téllez.

According to her analysis, the silence surrounding the arrests of prominent Sandinista figures can be explained by one simple reason: fear. A fear that reaches from the mid-level ranks of the FSLN all the way to the top of the military, where figures like General Julio César Avilés could be “in line” to fall next.

On Monday, June 9, 2025, retired General Álvaro Baltodano was sentenced to 20 years in prison in a secret trial held inside the prison. Does this have any impact on the leadership of the Sandinista Front and the Nicaraguan Army?

“I think it does, because the message is crystal clear: loyalty no longer pays off. Being loyal to Daniel Ortega, even to Rosario Murillo, no longer brings any reward. Years ago, loyalty paid off, but not anymore. Baltodano was part of Ortega’s innermost, iron circle, just like (Alberto) Acuña, Ortega’s head of security,” said Téllez.

The message is very clear: anyone who isn’t part of the Ortega-Murillo family will end up in El Chipote or La Modelo, accused of whatever, because the paranoia within the Ortega-Murillo circle keeps growing.

Baltodano was captured in the early hours of May 14 on his estate by a contingent of officers from the Judicial Support Directorate. Now, less than a month later, he’s been sentenced in a video-conference trial held inside prison. Is this a sign that the regime is radicalizing?

“I think it’s a total sign of weakness, actually. If they’ve started to devour their own inner circle, then the military leadership is next. I believe General Julio César Avilés could be in line—he’s been the head of the army for 15 years and has accumulated a lot of power. The same goes for the two colonel-generals (Bayardo Rodríguez and Marvin Corrales); my impression is that naming them “colonel-generals” is just a way to start clearing them out. These are people who’ve gained a lot of power—and anyone who accumulates too much power or too much information is not to Rosario Murillo’s liking. I think the military leadership is clearly next. And they’ve likely already been warned.

Baltodano was convicted of the alleged crime of treason, with political motives attributed to his arrest. Following his detention, other former military officers were also captured, though their status remains unknown. Former council members and mayors from the CxL party were detained as well. Does this point to signs of discontent among Sandinistas with Daniel Ortega and Rosario Murillo?

“I believe so. Within the Sandinista Front, there is growing discontent, which is becoming more widespread. At the same time, the party’s base is significantly eroding. Among the mid-level ranks, there’s a sense that they could be imprisoned at any moment—just like dozens of government and party officials who are still being held at “El Chipote” under conditions of enforced disappearance. No one knows anything about them, and their families stay silent out of fear for their own safety.

“The Sandinista leadership is bound together by corruption, but below that level, people are afraid the rug could be pulled out from under them at any time. They know they could be dismissed, stripped of everything, or end up in prison—something that has already happened repeatedly over the past two years.

“As the regime feels increasingly weakened, this process of cannibalizing itself will only accelerate. They’re devouring their own ranks, their own circle, and in the end, the only ones left will be the Ortega-Murillo family and a small inner circle—whose identities are largely unknown—because even their most loyal followers are now falling out of favor,” concluded Téllez.

Read the full interview at Confidencial.digital.

- A word from our sponsors -

My Mother Will Return to Her Homeland When Nicaragua Becomes a Republic Again

By
Rico
-
0
Violeta Barrios de Chamorro: A Woman Who Fought for Peace in Nicaragua She dreamed of a democratic Nicaragua, and after defeating Daniel Ortega at the polls in 1990, she became the first woman president in the Americas.

RICO’s Q —  “My Mother Will Return to Her Homeland When Nicaragua Becomes a Republic Again,” were the words of Carlos Fernando Chamorro, son of former President of Nicaragua, Violeta Barrios de Chamorro, who died last weekend in Costa Rica, at the age of 95.

Carlos Fernando, the youngest son of the first woman elected president by popular vote in the Americas, is a Nicaraguan independent investigative journalist and the founder and editor of Confidencial, a news website covering Nicaragua. In January 2019, Chamorro went into exile in Costa Rica, after the police raid of Confidencial’s offices on 14 December 2018, returning in late November of the same year. Chamorro went into exile again in June 2021 after his siblings were arrested by the Nicaraguan authorities.

“In the early hours of June 14, 2025, the light of our mother, Violeta Barrios de Chamorro, was extinguished, but that same day, hope was reborn in Nicaragua. A hope embodied in the example of her life, in her legacy of integrity and honesty, in her commitment to freedom and democracy, in the lived experience that it is possible to overcome fear in order to express the will of the people, and above all, in her stature as a stateswoman who governed democratically, even in the face of authoritarian threats,” wrote Carlos Fernando on his daily news site.

“This weekend in Nicaragua, some parishioners asked their priests to pray for my mother during Mass or to dedicate a service to her. The response was: ‘It’s better not to. We can’t, because it’s too dangerous’. We’ll include her in the prayer for all the faithful departed, we remember her fondly, and we would love to offer the Mass in her name, but we simply can’t take that risk”.

Violeta Barrios de Chamorro: A Woman Who Fought for Peace in Nicaragua. She dreamed of a democratic Nicaragua, and after defeating Daniel Ortega at the polls in 1990, she became the first woman president in the Americas.

“And one might ask: why is it dangerous in Nicaragua to offer a prayer or a Mass for Doña Violeta de Chamorro? Just as, in the past, praying for imprisoned bishops and priests has been treated as a punishable crime—why is there censorship against a woman of peace who has never posed a threat to national security? The only possible explanation is the regime’s fear of hope spreading,” explained Carlos Fernando.

In October 2023, Chamorro’s siblings Pedro Joaquín and Cristiana (who was thwarted from running against Daniel Ortega in the 2021 presidential elections) were released from prison and forcibly exiled and Claudia Lucía had to travel to the United States for health reasons.

“We made the decision to move our mother to San José so we could give her here the love and affection we were no longer able to give her in a homeland that had been taken from us,” wrote Carlos Fernando.

“She held on to life, and finally, in January of this year, the four of us were able to reunite in San José, to sing to her, to pray with her, to kiss her, to hold her, and to thank her endlessly for her life.

“And because I had the privilege of being by my mother’s side in Costa Rica, and because we know firsthand the pain of exile and the forced separation of families, we stand in solidarity with all political prisoners who never had the chance to see their mothers and fathers again before they passed.

“We stand in solidarity with all those in exile who haven’t been able to be with their loved ones in their final moments in Nicaragua, and with every family torn apart by the cruelty of the dictators who have turned Nicaragua into a nation of the banished.

“Thank you also to the people and the State of Costa Rica, who welcomed our parents during their first exile in 1957, when they fled the Somoza dynastic dictatorship. Since then, Costa Rica has continued to receive the Chamorro Barrios family, and hundreds of thousands of Nicaraguans, migrants, and refugees, with solidarity through the ’70s, the ’80s, and now into the 21st century.

“The first time I truly felt proud of my mother, back when I was a child and thought she was the best mom in the world, she was a young and beautiful woman who loved playing baseball—and was quite a good hitter, too. My mother also knew how to ride horses to herd cattle, and I always remember her being very close to her children.

“My father was a powerful, earthy force who would arrive home punctually after the evening edition of La Prensa, back when it was an afternoon paper, and my mother could tell whether he was in a good or bad mood by the way he slammed the door,” continued Carlos Fernando.

On the afternoon of April 18, 2018, the day a protest was taking place on Camino de Oriente, Carlos Fernando said he left the Condiencial newsroom and went to visit his mother at her home in Las Palmas, as was his routine.

“We sat in her room and turned on the TV, which was showing images of the protest and the brutal police and paramilitary repression. After watching those images of repression for more than 30 minutes, she simply said, “What is this barbarity? What is this barbarity?”, said Carlos Fernando.

“Seven years later, we say to you: thank you, Mom, for planting the seed of hope with which we will bring change, so that Nicaragua can become a Republic again, rebuilt not with revenge, but with justice.

“Thank you, Mom, thank you Teteta, as your grandchildren and great-grandchildren call you, for your immense example of love and generosity.

“And I promise you that when Nicaragua becomes a Republic again, you will return to rest in peace in your homeland, so that all Nicaraguans can honor your memory and your legacy in a free country,” concluded Carlos Fernando.

 

- A word from our sponsors -

Uber announces new security tool for partner drivers

By
Rico
-
0

Q COSTARICA — The Uber app announced a new safety feature that will allow partner drivers to see how many trips a user has completed before accepting a ride. This information will be visible directly in the app, along with the user’s rating score upon receiving the ride request.

“This new tool is the result of active listening to partner drivers. We know that having more information before accepting a ride, such as knowing the number of trips a user has taken, can make a difference. Therefore, we continue to work hand in hand with technology to develop tools that offer greater transparency and raise the standard of mobility safety,” said Manuela Bedoya, Safety Communications Manager at Uber for Central America, the Andean Region and the Caribbean.

This tool joins the more than 40 safety features that the Uber app has available in the country for partner drivers and users. For partners, the following stand out:

  • Audio recording: Allows both riders and co-riders to record audio during a trip and submit it as part of a safety report.
  • Video recording: Allows recording of the vehicle’s interior using technology that utilizes the front-facing camera of the co-rider’s phone, encrypting the recording so it can only be submitted as part of a report to Uber’s support team.
  • Blocking future trips with riders they have designated with a low rating.
  • Rider verification: This includes electronic payment validation and scanning of government-issued ID from the Uber app for those paying in cash, among others.

In addition to these features, the Uber app has a team of former police officers available to work with law enforcement 24/7 to respond to urgent information requests and support investigations.

“Safety isn’t a single goal, but rather an ongoing process. Each new tool we launch is part of a comprehensive approach to promoting more reliable travel, where both partners and users feel more at ease before, during, and after their trip,” Bedoya added.

- A word from our sponsors -
1...202122...850Page 21 of 850
th>

¢461.96 BUY

¢466.89 SELL

/
27 March 2026 - At The Banks - Source: BCCR

Terms of use

Privacy Notice

More

© Copyright - Newspaper WordPress Theme by TagDiv