Costa Rica President considers tougher weapons laws

Costa Rican President Laura Fernández Delgado is evaluating legislative reforms to impose stricter prison sentences for the illegal possession of war-grade weaponry. The initiative aims to address current legal gaps where individuals arrested with high-caliber rifles and ammunition are released quickly due to existing sentencing guidelines.

Fernández indicated that the proposal is inspired by measures implemented in El Salvador under President Nayib Bukele. Following discussions with Bukele, the Costa Rican president noted that El Salvador adjusted sanctions to ensure that carrying military-grade weapons carries penalties comparable to significant criminal offenses.

While the Fuerza Élite team is analyzing the potential reform, any changes must be adapted to the national legal framework. Fernández emphasized that those caught with high-caliber weapons should face preventive detention and severe sentencing to combat the risks posed by criminal groups.