Costa Rica's most wanted fugitive Alejandro Arias, nicknamed "El Diablo," was arrested after a shootout that left eight police officers injured, with two in critical condition. The arrest occurred in the Sarapiquí region following a nearly decade-long manhunt.
Shootout Details
Arias was located at a property alongside two other alleged gang members. When police approached, he opened fire, sparking a one-hour gunfight. One of his associates was killed, and two others were arrested. Authorities also seized large quantities of money, firearms, and a poster of Pablo Escobar bearing the phrase "silver or lead."
Extreme Violence and Criminal Empire
Known for extreme brutality, Arias has been linked to over 360 murders, with victims often decapitated or burned alive. His criminal organization dominated Costa Rica's drug trade, and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration had offered a $500,000 reward for his capture, labeling him a leader of a "violent transnational criminal organization."
Official Reactions
Costa Rican President Laura Fernández described Arias as a "high-end criminal" and warned of the challenge to prevent his escape or continued criminal direction from prison, stating, "The challenge will be ensuring he doesn't escape or continue directing criminal activities from prison." The U.S. embassy in Costa Rica congratulated the officers, stating, "We congratulate the Costa Rican officers on this morning's capture of Alejandro Arias Monge. Our thoughts are with the brave officers who were injured during the operation. We recognise their courage and the skill with which they carried out this important arrest."
