Published on Monday, March 24, 2025
By the A.M. Costa Rica staff

Police in the San Vito District of Coto Brus Canton, Puntarenas Province, arrested a Japanese man, identified by the surname Motoaki, on suspicion of violating wildlife conservation laws, authorities said.

According to the Ministry of Public Security (MSP), park rangers spotted Motoaki catching insects during a routine patrol. Upon further investigation, officials determined he lacked the required permits for insect collection.

Police searched his vehicle and luggage and discovered various gathering tools, including nets, containers, and bags. They also found a black suitcase containing more than 200 butterflies, along with tubes and chemicals believed to prevent decomposition. Some insects had already been packaged, officials said.

Officers seized the tools and butterflies as evidence, while Motoaki was taken into custody at the Puntarenas Public Ministry. He remains there awaiting a judge’s decision on pre-trial measures as a suspect in violating Costa Rica’s Wildlife Conservation Law.

Under Wildlife Conservation Law No. 7317, hunting, trading, or keeping wild animals in captivity is illegal in Costa Rica. Those found guilty of holding wild species may face fines ranging from $600 to $26,000 or a prison sentence of one to three years.

Authorities encourage the public to report suspected cases of wildlife trafficking or captivity by calling the confidential bilingual tip line at 800-8000-645.

In a similar case in December 2024, police arrested a German man, named Ferdinand, for allegedly collecting tropical insects.

The Ministry of Public Security (MSP) is the government agency responsible for maintaining public order, ensuring citizen security, forming police units, and coordinating anti-crime initiatives.

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