Executive Summary
- The U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica has issued a security alert citing a spike in armed robberies and scams targeting foreigners.
- Criminals are targeting short-term rentals and coercing victims into financial transfers under threat of violence.
- Travelers are advised to verify the identity of law enforcement officials and avoid resisting during robberies to prevent injury.
- Property owners are urged to enhance security measures, while the Judicial Investigation Agency (OIJ) increases efforts to track criminal groups.
The U.S. Embassy in San José has issued a comprehensive security alert advising United States citizens to exercise increased caution due to a surge in criminal activity targeting foreigners throughout Costa Rica. Diplomatic officials identified a specific spike in property theft, financial scams, and armed robberies that have adversely affected both U.S. tourists and expatriate residents.
According to the advisory, criminal organizations have increasingly targeted foreign-owned residences and commercial establishments, executing break-ins, armed holdups, and extortion schemes. The Embassy noted instances where gangs coerced victims into withdrawing significant sums of money from ATMs or authorizing bank transfers under the threat of violence. Tourists utilizing short-term rental accommodations have also reported armed home invasions.
Embassy personnel emphasized that these events indicate a broader trend of criminal activity directed at visitors. To mitigate risks, U.S. officials advised citizens to implement strict security measures, including the installation of motion-sensor lighting and surveillance cameras for property owners. Travelers were strongly cautioned against resisting assailants during a robbery, as non-compliance has historically led to escalated violence.
The alert further specifies that individuals approached by persons claiming to represent local law enforcement should request official identification. If the legitimacy of the officer is in doubt, individuals are advised to proceed immediately to the nearest station of the Judicial Investigation Agency (OIJ). The Embassy also warned of sophisticated theft tactics, such as signal jamming to prevent vehicle doors from locking, and urged vigilance in banking environments.
Regional Security Outlook
This heightened advisory arrives as Costa Rica prepares for its high tourism season, signalling a critical concern regarding public safety in expat-heavy regions like Guanacaste and the Central Valley. While the OIJ has acknowledged these threats and is intensifying efforts to dismantle the responsible criminal networks, the explicit warning from U.S. officials underscores the operational capability of local gangs targeting foreign wealth. The alert serves as a significant indicator that despite the nation’s reputation for tourism, the security environment requires travelers to adopt a defensive posture regarding personal safety and asset protection.
