Ariel Robles testifies in trial against Yendry Quirós for alleged threats

A new trial has commenced in San José against activist and influencer Yendry Quirós, known as ‘La Colocha’, who faces charges of threatening a public official. The legal proceedings follow the annulment of a previous acquittal by the Criminal Sentence Appeals Tribunal, which cited errors in evidence assessment and legal interpretation.

The case stems from a June 2023 protest in front of the Legislative Assembly, where Quirós allegedly used a megaphone to direct offensive remarks at former deputy Ariel Robles. Specifically, she stated they would ‘sacarle el sirope de la nariz’ (make the syrup come out of his nose). Robles testified that he interpreted the term ‘sirope’ as a direct reference to blood due to its red color, perceiving the comment as a threat of physical violence intended to intimidate him during his parliamentary duties.

The start of the trial saw opposing groups gathered outside the courts, with supporters of Quirós and the Frente Amplio party present. Robles entered the courtroom wearing a bulletproof vest and under the protection of judicial investigation agents.