Former Costa Rican President Calls for Urgent Security Reforms Following OIJ Officer's Homicide
José María Figueres expresses concern over rising violence in Costa Rica after the murder of Geiner Zamora, the Judicial Investigation Organization's deputy chief.
On February 5, 2025, José María Figueres Olsen, former President of Costa Rica, attended the funeral of Geiner Zamora Hidalgo, the deputy head of the Judicial Investigation Organization (OIJ) of Guápiles, who was recently murdered.
In a statement following the tragedy, Figueres expressed deep sorrow, emphasizing the urgency for change in national budgeting and social policies to combat increasing violence in the country.
In his remarks, Figueres pointed out that Zamora's death marked the 23rd fatality among members of Costa Rica's security forces, stating, "(Criminals) have crossed the line; they are losing respect for authority, and this cannot continue." He urged for unity and the need to enhance police forces, calling for increased funding and resources to support security personnel in their efforts to protect the public.
Figueres highlighted broader social issues, noting that many young people in marginalized neighborhoods struggle to complete their education and subsequently face difficulties in finding employment, which increases their vulnerability to criminal organizations, including drug trafficking.
Although Figueres did not have a close relationship with Zamora's family, he attended the services held at the Ciudad para las Naciones church in the Toro Amarillo neighborhood of Guápiles, expressing his condolences to those mourning the loss.
He further articulated the need for political leaders to come together to support law enforcement and establish a safer environment for Costa Ricans.
Figueres stated, "It is time to agree on a common goal beyond political factions to bring about the peace that we Costa Ricans deserve."
The call for urgent reforms comes amid rising concerns regarding organized crime's influence in Costa Rica, as evidenced by recent statements from various business leaders warning about the threat that organized crime poses to investment in the country.
In the wake of Zamora's assassination, reactions from the OIJ also highlighted resilience, with officials stating they remain undeterred in their commitment to combating crime.
Authorities have identified a criminal group from Guápiles and Turrialba as being responsible for the attack that left Zamora dead.
The ongoing violence and the implications for social stability and security investment in Costa Rica continue to draw attention from various sectors of society, prompting discussions on approaches to tackle such critical issues.
In a statement following the tragedy, Figueres expressed deep sorrow, emphasizing the urgency for change in national budgeting and social policies to combat increasing violence in the country.
In his remarks, Figueres pointed out that Zamora's death marked the 23rd fatality among members of Costa Rica's security forces, stating, "(Criminals) have crossed the line; they are losing respect for authority, and this cannot continue." He urged for unity and the need to enhance police forces, calling for increased funding and resources to support security personnel in their efforts to protect the public.
Figueres highlighted broader social issues, noting that many young people in marginalized neighborhoods struggle to complete their education and subsequently face difficulties in finding employment, which increases their vulnerability to criminal organizations, including drug trafficking.
Although Figueres did not have a close relationship with Zamora's family, he attended the services held at the Ciudad para las Naciones church in the Toro Amarillo neighborhood of Guápiles, expressing his condolences to those mourning the loss.
He further articulated the need for political leaders to come together to support law enforcement and establish a safer environment for Costa Ricans.
Figueres stated, "It is time to agree on a common goal beyond political factions to bring about the peace that we Costa Ricans deserve."
The call for urgent reforms comes amid rising concerns regarding organized crime's influence in Costa Rica, as evidenced by recent statements from various business leaders warning about the threat that organized crime poses to investment in the country.
In the wake of Zamora's assassination, reactions from the OIJ also highlighted resilience, with officials stating they remain undeterred in their commitment to combating crime.
Authorities have identified a criminal group from Guápiles and Turrialba as being responsible for the attack that left Zamora dead.
The ongoing violence and the implications for social stability and security investment in Costa Rica continue to draw attention from various sectors of society, prompting discussions on approaches to tackle such critical issues.