Former Costa Rican Minister Accused of Leading Cartel Network Faces US Extradition
San José, Costa Rica – In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves through Costa Rica, former Magistrate and Minister of Security Celso Gamboa Sánchez has publicly addressed the extradition process initiated by the United States, alleging his involvement in a vast international cocaine trafficking operation. The case, unfolding amidst a trial for prior influence peddling charges, reveals accusations linking Gamboa to some of the world’s most notorious cartels – the Gulf of Mexico cartel, the Sinaloa Cartel, and the Gulf clan of Colombia. This is a breaking news story with significant implications for regional security and Costa Rica’s reputation.
Gamboa Speaks Out: “I Will Go to Texas”
Speaking during his trial, Gamboa declared his intention to proactively face the charges in the US if his extradition is not approved by the Criminal Court of San José. “If I am not extradited… I will be the first to go to Texas to see what the thing is, because I am not going to let me cool,” he stated, adding a deeply personal plea regarding a son he hasn’t seen in a long time and his desire for clarification. This defiant stance, coupled with the gravity of the accusations, underscores the high stakes of this case. The urgency of the situation is driving rapid SEO optimization to ensure this story reaches a wide audience via Google News.
DEA Investigation Uncovers Alleged Cartel Leadership
Just hours after his capture, the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) reportedly identified Gamboa as a key regional leader for the Gulf of Mexico cartel, overseeing drug trafficking operations across Panama, Costa Rica, Honduras, and Nicaragua. The DEA alleges he coordinated shipments to the US in collaboration with the Sinaloa Cartel and the Gulf clan. This isn’t a case of a single rogue actor; it points to a deeply embedded network potentially exploiting Costa Rica’s strategic location.
Three Arrested in Coordinated Operation
Gamboa wasn’t acting alone. The DEA’s extradition application led to the simultaneous arrests of Edwin López Vega, known as “Rat Chest,” and businessman Jonathan Álvarez Alfaro. López Vega, a convicted drug trafficker with a history of money laundering, was apprehended in May 2025 with a substantial amount of unaccounted-for cash. Álvarez Alfaro is suspected of running a sophisticated money laundering operation utilizing real estate, livestock auctions, vehicle sales, and sports courts – a network uncovered during “Operation Venus.” All three remain in maximum security detention as the extradition process unfolds.
A History of Power and a Shadowy Allegation
The accusations against Gamboa are particularly damaging given his extensive career in Costa Rican law enforcement and government. He previously held positions as Minister of Security, a Magistrate of the Court, director of the DIS (Intelligence and Security Directorate), Deputy Minister, Deputy Prosecutor, and Regional Chief of the Public Ministry. The DEA claims Gamboa assumed regional cartel leadership after the arrest of his associates, with assistance from López Vega. This raises serious questions about potential corruption within Costa Rica’s institutions and the vulnerability of its security apparatus.
The Rise of Transnational Crime in Central America
Costa Rica, while often viewed as a stable democracy, has increasingly become a transit point for drug trafficking between South America and North America. The country’s well-developed infrastructure and relatively stable political environment make it attractive to cartels seeking to move cocaine and other illicit substances. This case highlights the growing sophistication of these criminal organizations and their ability to infiltrate even high levels of government. Understanding the dynamics of transnational crime in Central America is crucial for developing effective counter-narcotics strategies. The long-term impact of this case could reshape Costa Rica’s approach to drug enforcement and international cooperation.
The unfolding situation with Celso Gamboa Sánchez and his alleged cartel connections serves as a stark reminder of the pervasive threat posed by transnational criminal organizations. As the extradition process progresses, Archyde.com will continue to provide comprehensive coverage and insightful analysis of this developing story, keeping you informed on the latest developments and their broader implications. Stay tuned for updates and explore our extensive archive of investigative journalism on international crime and security.
