Costa Rica’s Recope frequently encounters tunnels designed for illegal fuel extraction. Recently, the agency unearthed the longest tunnel of the year, measuring 12 meters in length.
Discovery at Búfalo de Río Blanco, Limón
This 12-meter tunnel, which was 1.5 meters deep, was linked to Recope’s polyduct in Búfalo de Río Blanco, Limón, located alongside Route 32.
Tools Indicate Organized Operation
Near the pipeline, authorities found shovels and buckets, indicating a planned and organized operation.
Secluded Location Facilitates Criminal Activities
The tunnel’s secluded location, amidst dense plantations, allowed the criminals to conduct their illegal operations undetected during the night and early morning hours.
Tunnel Destruction and Security Measures in Place
Special machinery has been employed to destroy the tunnel and security personnel are now on site. To date, no arrests associated with this case have been made.
Harsh Penalties for Fuel Theft
The penalties for fuel theft in Costa Rica are severe, with up to 15 years in prison for convicted offenders.
Recope Encourages Public to Report Suspicious Activities
Recope urges anyone with knowledge of theft, storage, or transportation of illegal fuel to report it by calling their hotline, 1002.
