Agents from Costa Rica’s Judicial Investigation Agency (OIJ) detained Glen Rojas Barquero and several family members yesterday during raids in the investigation known as the Strategy Case. The 46-year-old faces charges of leading a group accused of laundering money from drug trafficking.
OIJ Director Michael Soto identified Rojas Barquero as the head of the organization. He said the operation drew in the suspect’s mother, brothers and children along with other people. “The ringleader is a man named Rojas Barquero. His mother, brothers, and children are also involved, as well as other individuals,” Soto said.
Investigators estimate the group handled around ₡4.5 billion in suspicious funds. Reports indicate Rojas Barquero built the holdings in roughly nine years. Agents seized luxury vehicles and placed liens on condominium properties. They targeted the Hotel GR Corcovado in Golfito, the Transportes GR company that runs buses for international tourist transport, and a firm dedicated to the rental of heavy machinery.
Authorities say these businesses served as fronts. Criminal groups often buy assets and set up companies to move illicit money into the legal economy. The raids formed part of a joint effort with the Venus 2.0 investigation. Together the operations included about 20 searches across six provinces: San José, Alajuela, Cartago, Heredia, Guanacaste and Puntarenas. Agents arrested Rojas Barquero in a condominium in La Guácima de Alajuela.
The probe began in August 2023 after information arrived through the OIJ confidential hotline. Police now collect financial documents, electronic devices and company records to trace how the money moved. Reports link the group to Jonathan Álvarez Alfaro, a figure wanted by U.S. authorities on drug charges.
Money laundering tied to drug trafficking falls under the Law on Narcotics and Related Activities. The offense can carry penalties of up to 20 years in prison.
