Costa Rica Cracks Down on Human Trafficking Network in Major Raid

A large police operation in Costa Rica led to the arrest of 21 individuals connected to an international human-trafficking ring between Ecuador and the U.S. The operation aimed to curtail migrant flow through Latin America. Suspects charged $14,000 per person to facilitate illegal crossings.

In a sweeping police operation on Tuesday, Costa Rican authorities apprehended 21 individuals believed to be involved in an international human-trafficking network spanning from Ecuador to the United States, according to officials. The operation was a coordinated effort with U.S. and Panamanian authorities, including 18 raids across the Central American nation.

The crackdown aims to curb the increasing migration flow toward the United States through Latin America. Despite a recent decrease, tens of thousands of migrants attempt the dangerous Darien Gap passage monthly. Those arrested are accused of providing illegal logistics services in Costa Rica, charging $14,000 per person.

The detained suspects were assisting migrants mainly from Ecuador, with some from Africa and Asia, by moving them through safe houses and hotels for further transit to Nicaragua. According to Costa Rica's security minister, Mario Zamora, the operation marks the Costa Rican phase of a larger international effort. A recent agreement between Panama and the U.S. to manage Darien Gap crossings could soon extend to Costa Rica.

(With inputs from agencies.)