29 Jun 2018 | 01:54 PM UTC
Costa Rica: Homicide rates continue to rise
Costa Rican authorities report over 302 murders in the first half of 2018; country on track to set record for 2018
Event
Costa Rican officials reported 302 murders in the first half of 2018. This is 29 more than during the same period in 2017, the most violent year in the country’s recent history. June saw the lowest case rates of the year, potentially due to 12 “mega operations” carried out by security forces in the country.
Context
Costa Rica has traditionally been one of the least violent countries in
the region, with a relatively high level of development, stable
government, and a limited military. However, increasing levels of
inequality have led to an upsurge in the drug trade in recent years and
the rise in violent crime has been attributed in large part to conflicts
between rival organized crime groups. The murder rate in 2017 reached 12 per
100,000 residents, and was considered an “epidemic” by the World Health
Organization (WHO).
Advice
Individuals in Costa Rica are advised to remain vigilant at all times and take commonsense measures to minimize the risk of becoming a target (maintain a low profile, do not wear or display items of value, etc.).
