Costa Rica authorities handed over a Syrian national to the United States after his arrest last year on charges of running a human smuggling operation. The man, known by the last name Maklad, led a group that moved migrants from Egypt, Venezuela, and Guatemala through New Mexico between 2022 and 2025, according to Osvaldo Ramírez, who heads Interpol operations at the Judicial Investigation Agency.
Officers captured the 39-year-old in May 2025 as he crossed into the country from Nicaragua. Ramírez shared details in a video briefing, confirming the transfer went smoothly. Maklad escaped the U.S. after agents there broke up his network last year. He then aimed for Costa Rica, where border controls stopped him.
This case highlights ongoing efforts to curb illegal migration routes in the region. Costa Rica has stepped up cooperation with international partners, including the U.S., to target smuggling rings that exploit vulnerable people seeking better lives. Recent raids in the country have dismantled other networks, such as one tied to Asian migrants last spring, leading to multiple arrests. Officials here processed over two dozen extradition requests in 2025 alone, with most coming from the U.S. for crimes like drug transport and human trafficking.
The Syrian’s group focused on land routes, charging high fees to guide people across borders. U.S. prosecutors built their case around evidence from operations in New Mexico, where the network based its activities. Maklad stayed in custody since his detention while courts reviewed the extradition. Judges approved the move after confirming the charges met treaty standards between the two nations.
Costa Rica updated its laws last year to allow nationals’ extradition for serious offenses like trafficking, aligning with U.S. demands for mutual aid in fighting cross-border crime. President Donald Trump, back in office since January 2025, pushed stricter border measures, including sweeps that netted smugglers and led to large-scale removals. This policy shift increased pressure on countries like Costa Rica to act on U.S. warrants.
Ramírez noted the operation’s success shows strong ties between agencies. The handover marks another step in disrupting groups that profit from migration crises. Officials did not release more on Maklad’s background or the full scope of his network. The U.S. will now handle his trial, where he faces federal human smuggling counts.
Costa Rica continues to monitor borders amid rising migrant flows from South America and beyond. Last year saw record detentions, with many linked to organized crime. This extradition underscores the shared commitment to security and legal order in the Americas.
