SAN JOSE, Costa Rica (AP) — In a further move towards adopting a tougher approach to crime, Costa Rican President Rodrigo Chaves announced intentions to construct a new prison in the country, patterned after the
highest-security gang prison in El Salvador.
On Friday, during his visit to the Reforma prison, Chaves made this announcement, following the approach of El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele.
acknowledged last year with Costa Rica’s most prestigious diplomatic award
for his dismantling of those gangs in that country.
Chaves also mentioned that apart from constructing a new prison, the small stores within current facilities would be closed. Conjugal visit permissions would be limited, and stricter controls would be imposed on family members bringing meals to prisoners.
The limitations were designed to prevent the smuggling of drugs into prisons and curb other illegal activities.
Costa Rica is still grappling with unprecedentedly high murder rates.
In 2023, Costa Rica recorded a high of 907 homicides, which decreased slightly to 880 in 2024. According to official statistics, the nation is currently tracking at a similar rate of homicides compared to the previous year so far this year.
On Friday, Chaves mentioned an “alliance” with El Salvador and stated that he was in the process of securing funding for the construction of the new prison.
Bukele constructed his large new penitentiary to accommodate suspected gang members from the 85,000 individuals detained during his state of emergency, which lasted three years. During this period, his government aimed to suppress the influential street gangs plaguing the nation.
The prison gained further prominence after the U.S. government sent over 200 individuals from Venezuela, whom they alleged had connections with gangs, in March. Critics have highlighted issues within El Salvador’s detention facilities.
legal black holes
where the absence of proper procedures makes it hard for individuals to leave.
Chaves accompanied Bukele during his visit to the same Costa Rican prison earlier this year.
Family members of the prisoners viewed the actions as severe and have voiced their objections.
“They don’t have special privileges; these are basic rights. They’ve taken away their right to see their children, the right to have visits, and even the right to eat food from home,” stated Katherine López, who is married to an inmate.
Javier Córdova, The Canadian Press
