Five Gangs Fuel Cartago Violence, Costa Rican Police Say

Costa Rican authorities have identified five criminal gangs as the primary drivers of violence in the Cartago region. The Organismo de Investigación Judicial (OIJ) attributes the escalating crime to fierce competition over drug sales territories and ongoing disputes between these organized groups. The OIJ's findings point to a complex web of criminal activity that has destabilized public safety in the area.

According to the OIJ, these five gangs are deeply entrenched in the local criminal underworld, engaging in activities ranging from drug trafficking to extortion. Their territorial battles have led to an increase in violent incidents, including assaults and homicides, creating an atmosphere of fear among residents. The judicial police are now focusing their efforts on dismantling these organizations and bringing those responsible to justice.

The identification of these specific groups marks a significant step in the investigation, allowing law enforcement to target their operations more effectively. The OIJ is coordinating with other security forces to implement strategies aimed at disrupting the gangs' networks and reducing their influence. The focus remains on restoring peace and security to Cartago, a region that has seen a concerning rise in criminal activity.