Costa Rican authorities have captured the country’s most wanted fugitive, Alejandro Arias Monge, better known as “Diablo”, nearly a decade after a manhunt.
The arrest took place early Friday during a major police operation at a farm in Sarapiquí, Heredia Province. Investigators said officers came under heavy gunfire from members of Arias Monge’s criminal network, leading to an exchange that lasted about an hour.
Five members of the Judicial Investigation Agency’s tactical unit were injured during the operation. Authorities said four were in stable condition, while another officer required specialised medical treatment. A fourth suspect, identified by the alias “Coco Guácimo,” was killed during the confrontation.
Police also arrested two men believed to be senior members of Arias Monge’s organisation, including Jonathan Pérez Méndez, known as “Tan,” who investigators say was expected to succeed him.
Authorities seized several high-powered firearms, including AK-47-style rifles, pistols and drone equipment believed to have been used to monitor police movements.
Arias Monge disappeared in 2016 after failing to appear in court following his release from pre-trial detention. Since then, investigators have linked him to numerous serious crimes, including drug trafficking, money laundering, multiple homicides and threats against law enforcement officers. Those allegations have not yet been tested in court.
His capture drew international attention after the United States offered a reward of up to US$500,000 for information leading to his arrest through its Transnational Organised Crime Rewards Program and described him as the leader of a violent criminal organisation operating across Central America.
