The U.S. Department of Justice has requested this week, the extradition of three foreign nationals arrested in Costa Rica on international drug trafficking charges.

A Venezuelan man identified by the surname Sánchez and two Colombian men, Restrepo and Sinisterra, were taken into custody during a joint anti-narcotics operation conducted by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Judicial Investigation Organization (OIJ). The operation led to the seizure of nearly 70 kilograms of cocaine.

The men are the subjects of an international arrest warrant and extradition request issued by a federal court in Florida. Following protocol, they were transferred to Costa Rica’s Public Ministry in San José, where they will remain while extradition proceedings move forward.

The arrests highlight a recent increase in Costa Rica of individuals detained at the request of U.S. authorities. In a recent case, a Costa Rican national identified as Picado-Grijalba was arrested following a DEA request. He is wanted in the United States on drug trafficking charges based on a court order issued in Dallas, Texas.

This week, the U.S. Embassy announced a reward of up to $10 million for information that helps disrupt the financial networks of major drug cartels.

Recently, Wesley Wynne, a federal prosecutor from the Eastern District of Texas, traveled to Costa Rica to meet with authorities and a group of Costa Ricans facing extradition to the United States on drug trafficking charges.

In May 2025, Costa Rica approved a constitutional reform allowing the extradition of its own nationals accused of drug trafficking or terrorism. That change directly applies to the four men sanctioned by OFAC.

Authorities are encouraging the public to report individuals who may be subject to international arrest. Confidential tips can be submitted by calling the 10-digit hotline at 800-8000-645 or the quick line at 11-76. Bilingual agents are available in both English and Spanish.

The OIJ, a division of the Supreme Court of Justice, is responsible for conducting criminal investigations and holds nationwide police authority.