Costa Rica Ex-Minister Extradited to US in Historic Move

Costa Rica Ex-Minister Extradited to US

For the first time in recent history, Costa Rica has extradited one of its citizens to the United States to face criminal charges related to drug trafficking and conspiracy. Celso Gamboa, a former Supreme Court justice and deputy attorney general, was targeted in this historic move.

The extradition marks a significant shift in Costa Rican law, which previously banned such actions but was amended in 2025 to combat rising crime and corruption. The case has drawn attention due to Gamboa's high-profile status and the allegations that he exploited his government positions to aid drug trafficking operations.

This development reflects Costa Rica's growing cooperation with the US in combating organized crime, a trend that has intensified under recent bilateral agreements.