US Gets 2 Top Traffickers

Costa Rica has extradited two alleged drug traffickers, Gilbert Bell Fernandez and Gabriel Lozano, to the US to face charges, marking a significant cooperation between the two countries in the fight against international drug trafficking.

The two men, who were extradited to face trial in U.S. federal court in New York, are accused of playing key roles in the spread of drug trafficking in Costa Rica. Gilbert Bell Fernandez, also known as 'Macho Coca', is 62 years old, according to The Straits Times, and 63 years old, according to CBS News. He was imposed with sanctions by the US in 2023 for his 'significant role in the recent transformation of Costa Rica into a major narcotics transit hub'.

Gabriel Lozano, also known as 'Compadre', is accused of using Costa Rica as a key transit point for cocaine moving from South American producers to markets farther north. The extraditions are part of Costa Rica's efforts to combat the surge in violence tied to the spread of drug trafficking groups in the country.

## What changed Costa Rica approved the extradition of its citizens on drug trafficking or terrorism charges in 2025. The first Costa Ricans were extradited under the measure in March, and about 20 Costa Rican suspects are currently facing extradition proceedings, along with a similar number of foreign nationals.

## Why it matters The extraditions mark a significant cooperation between Costa Rica and the US in the fight against international drug trafficking. Costa Rica has long been seen as an oasis of stability and democracy in Central America, but in recent years, it has faced a surge in violence tied to the spread of drug trafficking groups. The country's efforts to combat this surge have included approving the extradition of its citizens on drug trafficking or terrorism charges.

The US has labeled the Colombian cartel, which both men allegedly took part in trafficking cocaine for, as a Foreign Terrorist Organization. The extraditions are a significant step in the fight against international drug trafficking and demonstrate the cooperation between Costa Rica and the US in this effort.

## What happens next Both men will face trial in U.S. federal court in New York. The outcome of the trial will depend on the evidence presented and the court's decision. The extraditions are part of a larger effort by Costa Rica to combat the spread of drug trafficking in the country, and it is likely that more extraditions will follow in the future.