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- Photo via Ministry of Public Security -

Costa Rica Security Plan launched



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Published on Thursday, April 20, 2023
By the A.M. Costa Rica staff


On Wednesday, the government announced its plans to reduce crime rates in the country with the "Costa Rica safe operation plan."

 

President Rodrigo Chaves-Robles said: "We want a better Costa Rica for the next generations, and only by fighting crime are we going to achieve it."


The plan includes joint actions between many public organizations such as the Ministry of Public Security, Congress and the Poder Judicial which includes the entire judicial system of the country.


Among the main actions of the plan is the use of a $5 million loan from the United States Government, to build a Command and Control Center. It will have modern technology for criminal investigation cases.


In addition, the ministry will use a $1 million fund that was obtained with seized money in anti-drug operations, to purchase more police cars.


The strategy also includes changes in the working hours of more than 9,500 police officers. The update will allow them to work more continuous days protecting public areas. This change will take effect for six months.

 

To achieve this, it was decided to change the work role of the 12,000 police officers. Currently, officers work three continuous days and take three continuous days free. The shift change will allow police officers to work six continuous days and take four continuous days free.


In addition, the Ministry of Public Security will open a recruitment process for 400 new police officers, expected to start in June.


The plan also includes presenting to Congress an additional budget for hiring 300 more officers. This extra budget must be reviewed by the deputies and then approved in Congress.




The agenda also includes the presentation to Congress of six projects to change the current laws to reduce crime. Among these changes are:


  • Allow the extradition of Costa Ricans required by other countries for crimes of drug trafficking and terrorism.


  • Eliminate the right to release imprisonment before the end of the sentencing period in the case of prisoners for violent crimes.


  • Increase gun control to forbid people with a criminal record from obtaining a license to use a gun.


  • Increase jail sentences for teenagers, under 18 years old, who commit serious crimes.


Last year, authorities from the Judicial Investigation Organization recorded 656 killings. This figure marks a new record in crimes, surpassing the 588 murders in 2021.


Costa Rica is generally considered to be one of the safest countries in Central America. However, like any country, it does have its share of crime. The most common types of crime in the country are theft, pickpocketing, and petty crimes. These types of crimes are more likely to occur in tourist areas.


There are also more serious crimes, such as drug trafficking, human trafficking, and gang-related violence. In recent years, the country has seen an increase in violent crimes, such as homicides and assaults. This has led to concerns about public safety.

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How else could Costa Rica reduce crime rates?
We would like to know your thoughts on this story. Send your comments news@amcostarica.com



 





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