Homicide rates rise in Limón and Panama provinces

Recent crime statistics from Costa Rica and Panama indicate rising levels of violent crime in specific regions.

In Costa Rica, the Limón province recorded the highest increase in homicides compared to the previous year, with 147 intentional killings reported as of September 21, 2026. This is an increase from 129 during the same period in 2025. Nationally, Costa Rica has recorded 593 homicides. The Judicial Investigation Department (OIJ) noted that settling scores or revenge remains the primary motive for 379 of these cases. Firearms were the most common weapon used, accounting for 467 incidents.

In Panama, official data from the Attorney General's Office shows a 6% increase in homicides between January and August 2026, totaling 406 victims compared to 384 in the same period of 2025. Femicides saw a significant rise of 78%, increasing from nine to 16 cases. The province of Panama and the San Miguelito district accounted for the majority of homicide victims. While homicides rose, robberies in Panama decreased by 4.7% during the same period.