Costa Rica captures 'Diablo,' a narco fugitive for nearly 10 years

Costa Rican authorities have captured Alejandro Arias Monge, the alleged drug trafficker known by the alias “Diablo,” who had been on the run for nearly ten years. He is considered the most wanted criminal in the Central American nation.

Arias Monge was located in an isolated house in Sarapiquí, northeast of San José. Judicial agents engaged in a shootout with alleged drug traffickers, resulting in five officers being wounded, one critically, according to the Judicial Investigation Organization (OIJ).

During the exchange of gunfire, another alleged leader of Arias Monge's organization, identified only by the surname Ríos Oconitrillo and known as “Coco Guácimo,” was killed. Jonathan Pérez Méndez, known as “Tan,” another alleged drug trafficking leader wanted by authorities, was also arrested alongside Arias Monge.

The OIJ director, Michael Soto, reported that authorities seized five high-caliber assault rifles, including AK-47s, three pistols, and drones used for surveillance. He described the operation as precise and professional, leading to necessary arrests for the Costa Rican people.

Arias Monge had been among Costa Rica's most wanted criminals for years, with the U.S. government offering a $500,000 reward for information leading to his capture. The U.S. Embassy in San José celebrated the arrest, noting Arias Monge led a violent transnational criminal organization and faced multiple arrest warrants for drug trafficking, robbery, aggravated homicide, and money laundering.

Costa Rican President Laura Fernández highlighted the importance of joint police work, despite ongoing budget disputes between her government and the Judicial Branch. Arias Monge will now await trial for his alleged involvement in international drug trafficking and numerous homicides. Extradition to the United States is also a possibility.