No menu items!

COSTA RICA'S LEADING ENGLISH LANGUAGE NEWSPAPER

HomeCosta RicaCosta Rica Invests in Tourist Safety with New Police Stations

Costa Rica Invests in Tourist Safety with New Police Stations

Costa Rica’s renowned natural beauty and warm hospitality have made it a top global destination. However, its public security issues have become a growing concern that must be addressed to protect both locals and visitors.

That is why the Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT) will invest ¢650 million to construct police stations in the popular beach towns of Santa Teresa and Cahuita, according to an announcement by Tourism Minister William Rodríguez before the Legislative Assembly.

Rodríguez highlighted the urgent need to tackle rising insecurity adequately for both Ticos and foreign tourists. The increase in murders related to drug trafficking has reached top destinations for foreigners, fueled by criminal gangs fighting over territories. This situation has been highlighted in international media reports.

“We cannot talk about tourist insecurity; this concept would create a separation between the insecurity for tourists and for Costa Rican citizens. What we have here is citizen insecurity,” stressed Rodríguez.

Given the circumstances, members of the Tourism Commission consulted Rodríguez about the comprehensive strategy between the government, ICT and the Ministry of Security to address this phenomenon.

However, Rodríguez emphasized that there cannot be a plan just for tourism but rather for all people living and visiting Costa Rica. “If we make such a distinction, we would be making a serious mistake and sending the wrong message,” he added.

Legislators agree that if the perception of insecurity persists, fewer foreign tourists may be willing to explore the nation’s natural wonders and cultural attractions.

“We know the Public Security authorities and all police forces are making great efforts, but insecurity is reaching tourist sites. Eventually, if decisive action isn’t taken, it could have an effect,” said CANATUR’s Shirley Calvo.

Per the ICT, the tourists’ Perception of Security index is currently 88.7% but has dropped from 94% previously.

Besides the new police stations, Minister Rodríguez said ¢19.3 million went to the Tourist Police in 2022, with ¢25 million budgeted for 2023. “It is truly regrettable what is happening with citizen security. We cannot ignore it. We have seen it worsening and are aware it is a real issue,” he remarked solemnly.

Trending Now

How to Grow Broccoli Successfully in Costa Rica’s Highlands

In Costa Rica's cooler highland regions, home gardeners harvest fresh broccoli that brings a distinct flavor to everyday meals. This vegetable packs vitamins A,...

Costa Rica’s Blue Carpet event unites Leaders for Ocean Innovation and Tourism

On Friday, the Costa Rican Fishing Federation (FECOP) held the second edition of La Alfombra Azul, an event created to celebrate innovation, science, and...

Costa Rica Targets June 2026 for New High-Security Prison

Costa Rica faces a sharp increase in homicides tied to drug trafficking, putting heavy strain on its prisons. In response, the government has moved...

Trump Says He Will End US Aid to Colombia as Tensions Spike

United States President Donald Trump on Sunday accused his Colombian counterpart, Gustavo Petro, of tolerating drug production and announced he would end “large-scale payments...

Costa Rica Joins US-Led Bid for 2031 Women’s Soccer World Cup

The United States, Mexico, Costa Rica, and Jamaica have teamed up to bid for hosting the 2031 FIFA Women's World Cup. This marks the...

Costa Rica OIJ Arrests Human Trafficking Ring Exploiting Minors

The Judicial Investigation Agency (OIJ) dismantled a gang dedicated to human trafficking for the sexual exploitation of minors after carrying out 19 simultaneous raids...
spot_img
Costa Rica Coffee Maker Chorreador
Costa Rica Coffee Maker Chorreador
Costa Rica Travel Insurance
Costa Rica Rocking Chait
Costa Rica Travel

Latest News from Costa Rica