Why Drug Cartels Are Turning Costa Rica Into a Cocaine Battleground

Costa Rica was once considered one of Central America’s safest countries, but international cocaine trafficking has contributed to rising violence. Criminal networks linked to Mexico, Colombia, and other countries have used Costa Rican territory as part of international drug routes. This episode examines the trafficking competition behind the country’s homicide crisis and why the government is responding with a 5,100-bed mega-prison. It also explores whether incarcerating cartel members can meaningfully disrupt international trafficking networks.