Costa Rica arrests suspects linked to threats against Jewish community

Costa Rica’s Organization of Judicial Investigations (OIJ) has detained two suspects – a Lebanese-French man and a Costa Rican woman – linked to threats against the Jewish community and the alleged torture and robbery of a worker in Los Yos, San Jose. The Lebanese-French suspect was arrested in Los Yos, San Jose, along with a 32-year-old Costa Rican woman who is also under investigation for related crimes.

According to the MJ Crime Squad, the two individuals are involved in an alleged incident involving deprivation of liberty and aggravated robbery. According to preliminary information, between Friday, October 25 and Saturday, October 26, 2024, both suspects reportedly apprehended a man while doing renovation work on a property in Los Yos. Authorities allege that during this time the victim was tortured and her personal belongings were forcibly taken away.

The victim fortunately managed to escape and found help from nearby police officers who responded immediately. Based on evidence collected during a detailed investigation, OIJ agents determined that the victim’s account was credible, prompting them to raid a home in the Los Yoces neighborhood of Montes de Oca, San Jose. During the operation, both suspects were taken into custody.

During the raid, documents and materials that could provide additional information on the case were also seized. These items were subsequently sent to Department of Forensic Sciences laboratories for careful examination and analysis.

In addition, the Directorate of Intelligence and Security (DIS) was monitoring the male suspect due to suspicions of his involvement with terrorist groups and alleged threats against the Costa Rican Jewish community. Authorities are now exploring potential international connections that could shed light on broader security issues in Costa Rica.

OIJ and DIS emphasize that this case is part of an ongoing investigation and authorities continue to release details related to it. The suspects remain in the custody of the prosecutor’s office and will be given due consideration; They are expected to be formally charged soon.