Efforts to ensure that football stadiums in Costa Rica remain safe and family-friendly have intensified, as authorities grapple with the issue of pyrotechnics, which are legally prohibited.

This situation has raised significant concerns regarding crowd safety during matches.

In recent communications, Raúl Rivera, a commissioner from the Fuerza Pública, detailed the established methods by which pyrotechnics infiltrate stadiums in violation of the law.

Rivera indicated that clubs may either lack awareness of these methods or choose to overlook them, favoring vibrant atmospheres at the risk of incurring fines.

Rivera emphasized that law enforcement is aware of a consistent pattern where clubs allegedly allow the entry of pyrotechnics before matches.

Notably, it has been reported that on the day of events, authorities frequently do not confiscate flares and other explosive materials, as they have already been smuggled into the venues prior to the matches.

During a media training session, Rivera urged stakeholders within the football community to collaborate in preventing incidents that could lead to tragedies.

He criticized the prevailing mindset among fans that fosters hostility, stating, 'It is a football match, not a war.' Rivera highlighted that phrases encouraging aggression among fans could exacerbate tensions.

A National Security Commission, under the Ministry of Public Security, is examining proposals to amend existing legislation to ensure that those responsible for the use of pyrotechnics face stricter penalties than mere fines.

Rivera noted, 'We are working to regulate these situations.'

There have been reports of clubs distributing fire extinguishers filled with non-toxic chemical powder to select fans, contrasting with previous practices involving flares.

This change aims to manage the situation more effectively.

Rivera recounted previous troubling incidents in stadiums, including an occasion where law enforcement was compelled to leave the Ricardo Saprissa Stadium under contentious circumstances.

In another effort to enhance stadium safety, private security personnel were trained in overseeing events, although irregularities in personnel assignments have been noted.

The inherent risks associated with pyrotechnics include potential injuries to attendees and law enforcement, with reports of officers suffering hearing damage due to explosions.

Rivera noted that the perception of organized fan groups, such as “La Doce” and “La Ultra”, has evolved over time, acknowledging that they are not classified as infamous 'barras bravas' but rather recognized as organized supporters, which have historically been less troublesome.

The development and modification of these groups have been influenced by various factors, including police training based on experiences from South American countries known for their football culture.

Rivera clarified that efforts are underway to ensure that football in Costa Rica is conducted without violence and illegal pyrotechnic displays, maintaining a focus on the well-being of the attendees.

In a separate incident, a Traffic Officer, identified by the surname Campos Quesada, is under investigation following allegations of attempting to solicit sexual acts from a high school student in exchange for money.

The incident reportedly occurred in La Suiza, Turrialba, leading to the involvement of law enforcement when the victim's family was alerted.

The officer faces serious allegations, including the charges of producing pornographic content involving a minor, sexual acts with a minor, and abuse of authority.

The Ministry of Public Prosecution is pursuing protective measures in response to the allegations, as the officer initially detained the victim under dubious circumstances while claiming to conduct an investigation.

Video evidence captured by witnesses showed public dissatisfaction with the officer’s actions before his apprehension by the Fuerza Pública.