Costa Rica Passes 24/7 Raid Bill to Fight Drug Gangs
Costa Rica's legislature has approved a bill enabling 24/7 police raids to combat escalating drug-related homicides.
The measure, approved in its final debate, removes time limits on searches, giving authorities more flexibility to act against criminal networks.
- Lawmakers voted 43-0 to advance the legislation, known as file 24.495, which reforms the Criminal Procedure Code.
- The Judicial Investigation Agency (OIJ) and prosecutors can now perform searches at any hour, on any day, including weekends and holidays.
- For raids on homes, businesses, or offices, a judge must oversee the process in person.
- Clear deadlines for judicial approvals are set: up to three days for standard search warrant requests and five days for cases involving organized crime or complex investigations.
Author's summary: Costa Rica passes bill for 24/7 raids.