Environmental crime in Panama and Costa Rica

Authorities in Panama and Costa Rica have conducted operations to combat environmental crimes in protected regions. In Panama, officials arrested three individuals for illegal mining within Chagres National Park, seizing various mining tools. In Costa Rica, enforcement actions in the San Cayetano del Salto de Bagaces sector led to the detention of six men for illegal hunting of white-tailed deer using high-calibre firearms.

As the situation evolves, Costa Rica is facing intensified environmental threats, particularly in Corcovado National Park on the Osa Peninsula. Reports indicate rising instances of illegal gold mining, poaching, logging, and fishing. These activities are exacerbated by a significant shortage of personnel; while 48 rangers are assigned to the park, it is estimated that only about 15 are dedicated primarily to protection duties, leaving each responsible for roughly 3,000 hectares of terrain. Recent enforcement efforts in the Sirena River area involved suspects who allegedly threatened park rangers during investigations.