Capybaras, Cocaine, and a Chase: Costa Rica Police Make a Strange Bust

Costa Rican Police Intercept Drug Smugglers and Five Capybaras in Pacific Coast Chase On May 30, 2025, Costa Rican authorities made a remarkable discovery during a high-speed vehicle pursuit along the country's Pacific coast. The chase ended with the arrest of two suspects and the seizure of a peculiar cargo: five capybaras, a sizable amount of cocaine, and marijuana. The incident has sparked widespread interest due to its unusual nature, highlighting the unexpected intersection of drug trafficking and wildlife crime. According to a police spokesperson, "The suspects had prior criminal records, and the capybaras, which are not native to Costa Rica, were being illegally transported." The animals are now in the care of a local wildlife refuge. The authorities emphasized the unusual nature of the seizure, noting the rarity of such a combination of illegal activities. This case underscores the challenges faced by law enforcement in combating various forms of crime, from drug trafficking to the illegal wildlife trade. The capybaras' safe transfer to a sanctuary offers a positive note to this otherwise unusual criminal case.