Attorney General: “Costa Rica’s Southern Zone is a time bomb”

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July 2^nd, 2013 (InsideCostaRica.com) Costa Rica’s Attorney General, Jorge Chavarria, says Costa Rica’s Southern Zone is a “time bomb,” due to drug cartel activity, and that the area has become a strategic location for international drug trafficking, where 8 out of 10 cases currently under investigation are linked to organized crime.

Chavarria made the statements during an event marking the “International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking,” established by the United Nations, which was recognized on June 26^th.

Chavarria said that the area is “vulnerable,” yet has become of strategic importance for criminal organizations as a layover point for drug shipments, though some narcotics remain in Costa Rica, which has become an “expanding market.”

Authorities indicated the presence of at least three Mexican cartels in the area.

Courts in the area are becoming overwhelmed, such as in Perez Zeledon which has requested urgent assistance from judicial authorities after the number of cases there doubled over the last 5 years.

Chavarria said that the fight against drug trafficking in these problem areas begins with honest citizens in the area.  He said that authorities must provide the tools so residents can report crime with confidence.