Costa Rican authorities arrested 32-year-old Picado-Grijalba on Thursday following a request from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).

The Judicial Investigation Organization (OIJ) confirmed that Picado is the subject of an international warrant for capture and extradition to the United States. He is wanted by the U.S. Department of Justice in connection with an international drug trafficking case, based on a court order issued in Dallas, Texas.

Picado was taken into custody in a public area of Curridabat canton, San José. Authorities followed standard security procedures, immediately transferring him to the Public Ministry in San José, where he will remain as extradition proceedings move forward.

Reports indicate that Picado’s brother (also surnamed Picado-Grijalba) is also suspected of drug trafficking. He is currently in custody in London, England, after being captured on a DEA-issued international arrest warrant for deportation to the United States.

The arrest comes amid a surge in Costa Rica of apprehensions of individuals wanted by foreign authorities. 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.

The OIJ is encouraging the public to report individuals who may be subject to international arrest. Confidential tips can be submitted by calling the 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.

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