All amounts in U.S. dollars. Numbers in italics are estimates, usually based on the closest year for which data are available.

All amounts in U.S. dollars. Numbers in italics are estimates, usually based on the closest year for which data are available.

All amounts in U.S. dollars.

All amounts in U.S. dollars.

Document: 2008 End-Use Monitoring Report

Program: International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement

Background

SAN JOSE

EUM Program Coordinator
NAO Robert B. Andrew, Tel: 220-2253, andrewrb@state.gov

Inventory System
Post maintains an inventory of donated property using an Excel spreadsheet. Post has been using its own numbering and labeling system to keep track of items donated since April 2003 as NEPA (Non-Expendable Property Application) labels can no longer be used for INL procured items.

Staff Member EUM Responsibilities
Post's Narcotics Affairs Officer and Program Analyst are responsible for the EUM. They perform on-site inspections of the equipment donated and check resources against an inventory log (excel spreadsheet).

Other US Government Agency Assistance
DEA Special Agents and the Office of the Defense Representative Staff periodically visited Costa Rican counternarcotics installations and verified the proper use and continued maintenance of equipment acquired with INL funds.

Counterpart Agencies
The Drug Control Police (PCD) National Police Academy Costa Rican Coast Guard (SNGC) Air Surveillance Section (SVA) Canine Unit of the Ministry of Public Security (MPS) Ministry of Justice Financial Crimes/Money Laundering unit Planimetric Unit
Audio/Photograph Unit of the Forensics Lab Surveillance /Monitoring Unit
Cybercrimes Unit Judicial School and Canine Unit of the Organization for Judicial Investigations
(OIJ) Supreme Court's Child and Sex Exploitation Unit (CSE) Costa Rican Institute on Drugs (ICD), formerly CICAD Ministry of the Presidency

Monitoring Procedures

On-site Inspections
On-site inspections of all GOCR recipients were performed in October, November, and December 2008 and January 2009 except for the Prosecutor's Offices in Limon, Perez Zeledon, Quepos and San Carlos. Visits to these outlying areas are infrequent due limited funding.

Due to staff shortages, post was unable to inspect some equipment at the the Counternarcotics Prosecutors, and the Corruption, Financial Crimes and Tax Evasion Prosecutors. However, post plans to inspect these in 2009. On October 23, 2008, the NAO made an unscheduled visit to inspect donated items on the Costa Rican Coast at Quepos Station on the Pacific Coast. Also, unscheduled visits were completed year-round by the NAO officer, DEA special agents and the Office of the Defense Representative staff, as scheduling and funding permitted.

There were 1,007 donated items subject to inspection. Ninety (90) percent of those items were personally inspected.

Secondary Methods of Monitoring Resources
Post compared written reports and/or computerized records with GOCR inventory reports. The NAS staff also regularly discussed the status of INL-funded commodities/projects with host government officials. About 20 percent of donated items were monitored using secondary methods.

Receipt
All donated equipment is recorded with a specific document signed by an Embassy representative and the senior official from the recipient agency. The donated document specifies the equipment being donated and notes the inventory and manufacturer's serial number. The documents include the following text: "If the donated items do not meet the user's needs, according to the Letter of Agreement, the items may not be reassigned to another department and the U.S. Embassy political section must be notified immediately."

Status-Commodities

Computer Equipment
In previous years, the NAS provided a Compaq computer, a Toshiba laptop computer, a Sony notebook Pentium 4 laptop computer, a Sony digital camera, a Sony Camcorder, a HP office jet print/copy/scan/fax, a Riso high-speed reproduction printer, eight Dell Optiplex computers, and a UPS in support of the Coast Guard Academy. Also a computer, fax and a cordless phone were provided to the Quepos Coast Guard Station for the Operations Center. SNGC decided this center should be in San Jose, so the equipment was moved to their main offices.

The Riso high-speed reproduction printer is damaged; the SNGC plans to repair it. Due to their limited usefulness because of their old technology, VHS video cassette players are not being used. All other equipment is being used for its intended purpose.

In 2007, the NAS provided four Sony HandyCams, four Sony digital cameras, eight memory sticks, four rechargeable batteries and two double chargers. In 2008, one of the handycams was stolen during an operation. The rest of the equipment is used to investigate all major cases around the country.

In 2001, the NAS provided two Dell laptops, one scanner, two color printers, one digital camera, one camcorder and two video projectors to the National Police Academy. One of the Dell laptops was stolen but replaced, and the screen of the other one is not working so it is used with a projector. In CY-2005, the NAS provided a computer, Toshiba laptop with case, two Epson printers, and a video projector. In 2007, INL provided a Toshiba laptop, screen with tripod and Infocus LCD projector. The laptop, which has not worked since it was donated, has yet to be fixed by the Police Academy. The projector works for 10 minutes, gets warm and then it turns off; it has also not been repaired. The equipment is being used for its intended purpose.

In 2002-2006, the NAS provided a Compaq computer, a Toshiba laptop computer, a Sony notebook Pentium 4 laptop computer, a Sony digital camera, a Sony Camcorder, a HP office jet print/copy/scan/fax, a Riso high-speed reproduction printer and eight Dell Optiplex computers and a UPS in support of the Coast Guard Academy. Also, a computer, fax and a cordless phone were provided to the Quepos Coast Guard Station for the Operations Center. SNGC decided this center should be in San Jose, so the equipment was moved to the main offices there.

In 2006, the NAS provided six Dell computers, one Canon digital copying machine, and one Scan Jet to the Interpol office. In 2007, one HP LaserJet printer was also donated. The equipment has been very useful in speeding up investigations, and it is being used for its intended purpose.

In 2006, the NAS provided 10 computers, 10 Epson printers, MS Office 2003 and Windows XP Pro software, 10 surge protectors, three Toshiba laptops and one Epson projector to the MPS Child and Sex Exploitation. Some printers have run out of toner and the unit does not have enough funds in their budget to buy new ones. The equipment is being used for the investigation of CSE cases.

In CY-2001-2003, the NAS provided three Jaguar Pentium III computers, one HD DeskJet printer, one HP LaserJet, one HP Scan Jet, three UPS', two 24-switch ports, two optical fiber converters, one Sony camcorder, and one memory stick to the OIJ unit. A severe electrical storm damaged one of the optical fiber converters, which is no longer usable. Two monitors and one CPU for the Jaguar computers are irreparable and will be removed from inventory. This equipment is at the OIJ's K-9 Unit in Heredia and being used for its intended purpose.

In 2006, post donated 6 Dell computers, one Canon digital copying machine, and one Scan jet to the Interpol office.

In 2006, post donated the following to the Ministry of Public Security (MPS) Special Investigation Unit: 10 Pentium IV computers, 10 Epson printers, MS Office 2003 and Windows XP Pro software, 10 surge protectors, 3 Toshiba laptops and 1 Epson projector. The unit's focus has shifted under the current administration toward intellectual property crimes and stolen cars in addition to Anti-trafficking and Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) efforts.

From 2001-2006, post donated 2 Jaquar computers, 1 digital camcorder, a Cisco ASA Platform, 3 Dell power connect switches and 4 Dell Optiplex computers. Post financed the development of administrative software to enhance ICD's operational capabilities. This equipment is being used as intended. The software has had numerous problems but is fulfilling 90 percent of its intended functions,pending a link to four modules. The developer claims they have completed their part of the contract and are willing to donate this linkage so that the programs can run 100 percent in exchange for tax exemption. ICD is in the process of negotiating with the developer.

In 2005, post donated one Pentium IV computer, 1 Toshiba laptop, 2 Epson printers, and a video projector to the Supreme Court Judicial School. All equipment is being used for its intended purpose.

From 2002 to 2004, post donated the following to the CSC Prosecution Units in San Jose, Perez Zeledon, Quepos, Limon and San Carlos: 1 Jaquar computer, 3 HP foldable keyboards for HP IPAQ pocket PC, 3 DeskJet printers, 1 scanner. For the other four prosecution units, the NAS provided eight Dell computers, MS Office 2003 software, eight Epson printers, four HP Scan Jet, four Panasonic faxes, and four Canon copying machines in CY-2005 and 2006. A written report from the Chief Prosecutor's Office indicated that all equipment was in good condition and being used for its intended purpose.

In 2001-2003, post donated the following to the OIJ K-9 unit: 3 Jaquar Pentium III computers, one HP Deskjet printer, one HP Scan jet, 3 UPS, two 24-switch ports, 2 optical fiber converters, 1 Sony camcorder, and 1 memory stick. This equipment is at the OIJ's K-9 unit in Heredica and is being used for its intended purpose.

In 2004-2006, the NAS provided six Dell computers, three external tape drives, four ATA Raid controllers, two wireless PC cards, two drivelock USB's, three drivelocks in a caddy, six SCSI cards, four promise SATA 150 controller cards, four Encase Forensic software and upgrade packages, four Forensic toolkit access data packages, one password recovery kit, one wireless Access Point, and two Omni Flash Ide Uno to the OIJ Cyber Crimes Unit. All equipment is being use for its intended purposes.

In 2006-2007, the NAS donated two voice-activated recorders, four color and five black and white miniaturized cameras, 2 GB Secure Digital cards and Arc View software to the OIJ Photographic and Audiovisual Section and Transit and Planimetry Section of the Forensic Science Laboratory.

In 2008, this section investigated 248 cases but post does not have information on how many were sent to court or successfully prosecuted. This equipment has been used all around the country and is well taken care of. The section maintains a log with the information on the person that will be using the equipment and condition in which it was handed-over, With this equipment, they can now support various investigation requests that they were not able to support in the past due to lack of equipment.

In 2004-2005, the NAS provided three Toshiba laptops, eight computers, two HP scanners, two HP printers, two memory sticks, eight flash memory, two PS60 shredders, two high volume shredders, two file cabinets, one HP LaserJet, one Panasonic fax, one digital camera, one camcorder, and one copying machine to the OIJ Money Laundering Unit. The items are being used for their intended purpose.

In 2000, the NAS provided a Dell server with monitor to the Office of Precursor Control.

In 2002, the NAS funded the purchase of a Jaguar computer, an antivirus software package, a HP DeskJet printer, one Epson and one HP printer,and a Powerless LCD projector. The Dell server and Jaguar computer are obsolete, but are in good condition. ICD requests permission to pass them to another GOCR office that could better use them to meet current needs, possibly an office within the Coast Guard. The equipment was originally donated to the Ministry of Health, which at the time had responsibility for precursor chemical control.

In 2004, the Precursor Chemical Office was moved from the Health Ministry to Ice's headquarters. This equipment is now located in their headquarters and continues to be used for its intended purpose.

In 2001-2006, the NAS provided a Cannon digital copier, four Jaguar computers, two Jaguar high performances Pentium IV computers, an Apple computer with DVD recorder, three HP DeskJet printers, and one LaserJet printer to the OIJ Narcotics Section. All of the equipment is being used to support on-going counter narcotics operations/initiatives.
Guardian computer software was purchased in 2003 to enable ICD to electronically communicate with the El Paso Intelligence Center (EPIC) using the DEA Guardian software in the format required by EPIC. This software is outdated but still in use.

From 2001-2007, INL provided three Jaguar computers, one Dell Optiplex computer, one Imac Ruby Computer, a 36 GS hard disk, an Apple computer with DVD burner, computer software and licenses, computer 48-port switch, a 4-port analog module for connectivity outside San Jose, one HP printer, two Scan Jets, one Applied Magic video editor, and Mapinfo Geographic Information System (GIS) software to the Narcotics Control Police (PCD).

In 2008, NAS provided 3 Analyst's Notebooks, 1 patern tracer TCA, 1 pattern tracer TCA telephone call analysis guide, 1 iBase designer, 1 USB dongle and 2 DSC-H7 Sony cybershopt digital cameras.

Patrol Boats

Costa Rica received three 82-ft decommissioned USCG cutters as a donation of Excess Defense Articles in 2001. Transfer packages for these vessels were supported with post's INL funds, and included the refitting of all electronic and communication systems, training for the SNGC crews, and a full complement of spare parts.

The ships 82-3 "Juan Rafael Mora" and 82-2 "Juan Santa Maria" are based in the Pacific port of Puntarenas. In 2008, the 82-2 "Juan Santa Maria" and 82-3 "Juan Rafael Mora" had serious problems with on-board refrigerators. The NAS has recently ordered replacement parts. The air conditioning system in the 82-3 "Juan Rafael Mora" and the "Juan Santa Maria" are not working. The NAS has ordered repairs on those systems. Adequate air conditioning and refrigeration are essential for effective operation in Costa Rica's tropical waters. The 82-4 "Pancha Carraso" is currently out-of-service with two generators down; repair costs are being assessed. All three vessels are used for their intended purpose.

Six 24-ft Rigid Hull Inflatable (RHI) fast patrol craft were transferred to the Coast Guard in 2002. Each RHI is equipped with two Honda 130 HP outboard engines and complete rigging, electronics, and safety equipment. None are operational. They are currently stored at the Coast Guard Station in Quepos. These locally manufactured vessels have experienced numerous problems with the inflatable section of their hulls. The GPS equipment and four of the engines are in good condition. Eight need to be repaired. In 2006, SNGC requested authorization to remove the radar, communication and navigation equipment to install them on other vessels as needed. As of 2008, some of the equipment is in storage at the SNGC station in Quepos. Post is considering an auction to sell the boats and put the proceeds back into other counter-drug support.

Two 26-foor fiberglass fast boats were donated to the Ministry of Public Security in 2002. Each fast boat is equipped with two 120 horsepower Mercruiser diesel engines, complete rigging, electronics, and safety equipment. Two of the engines are in good condition and the other two are under repair. When operational, they are used for their intended purpose.

Vehicles

From CY-2002 to CY-2005, the NAS provided vehicles and equipment to the Ministry of the Presidency ICD's MET. INL funded the purchase of a customized Ford Econoline utility truck, Econoline Wagon 15-passenger utility van, two motorcycles, trailer, Honda generator, tools, and equipment for the truck. The MET conducts counternarcotics operations as well as a number of cross-border training exercises with counterparts in Nicaragua and Panama.

The truck has run only 18,000 km and has had no problems since its donation. It is maintenance intensive and has numerous mechanical problems, e.g., the fuel pump needs to be replaced every 6 months, according to local Ford dealer. Costa Rica's mountainous topography and poor roads present serious challenges for this vehicle, though it operates adequately in the city. When the fuel pump begins to fail, the vehicle takes twice the time or more to get to its destination.
It also has problems with the brakes that haven't been repaired properly. During 2007, it spent about six months at a local Ford dealer for repairs. It was only used twice all year. ICXD plans to trade this older truck in for a new diesel pick-up that can handle Costa Rican roads. The MET will move the cargo portion of the old truck to the new vehicle as well as all of the specialized tools. In the meantime, a different GOCR van is used along with a seized vehicle to conduct MET-type operations.

In 2003, post purchased two Toyota RAV-4s for donation to the Organization for Judicial Investigations (OIJ) to conduct undercover operations. In October 2008, both vehicles were traded in as a down payment for two new 2008 Daihatsu Terios.

INL funded 50 percent of a Ford F-250 in 2003 to allow the SNGC to transport patrol craft to the different Coast Guard stations within the country. The truck is undergoing repairs. The SNGC provided 50 percent of the funding for this vehicle with the understanding that it would be subject to the same End Use Monitoring requirements as any other vehicle purchased completely with INL funds. Although the vehicle has had some mechanical problems, they have been resolved and a maintenance contract has been signed by the dealer. The vehicle will undergo general preventive maintenance soon. The vehicle is being used for its intended purpose.

In 2002 and 2003, INL provided vehicles and equipment to the Ministry of the Presidency's Mobile Enforcement Team (MET). INL funded the purchase of a customized utility truck, utility van, two motorcycles, trailer, a Honda generator, tools, and equipment for the vehicles. The MET conducts counternarcotics operations as well as a number of cross-border training exercises with counterparts in Nicaragua and Panama.

Post donated a Ford E-150 8-passenger van to the PCD in 2003 to support operations throughout the country. It continues to be useful for transporting groups of PCD officials to conduct counternarcotics operations around the country.

A Ford E 350 15-passenger van was procured for the MPS K-9 facility located at the Juan Santa Maria International Airport in San Jose. Tools were provided for the van. In 2008, the van was in a minor accident and needed repainting.

In CY-2003, the NAS obtained a Customs Adviser of the Chevrolet Geo Tracker for the MPS K-9 unit for use in moving around the country and providing technical assistance and training to establish a sustainable and effective counternarcotics cargo inspection regime within the Ministry of Public Security (PCD), Ministry of Finance (PCF), and Organization for Judicial Investigations (OIJ) to include their Canine Units. The Customs Adviser departed on August 2004 and his position was not filled. On June 2007, this vehicle was donated to the MPS K-9 Unit to help the unit deploy around the country. The vehicle is still pending registration by the Costa Rican Government and the Embassy is assisting with the required paperwork, but it is being used for its intended purpose.

Mobile Enforcement Team
Ford Econoline utility truck
1
Econoline 15-passenger van
1
motorcycle
2

OIJ
Daihatsu Terios
2

SNGC
Ford F-240
1

PCD
Ford E-150 8-passenger vanF-240
1

MPS K-9
Ford F-350 15-passenger van
1
Chevrolet Geo Tracker
1

Communications Equipment
In 2002, post funded the purchase of a new communications network for the SNGC and SVA bases, vessels, and aircraft. The system is still not operational. ICE (the state-owned telecommunications monopoly) has provided the frequencies to the vendor on two separate occasions. However, upon testing, it was determined the frequencies were being used by other parties. The vendor never provided equipment to use available frequencies. The Ministry of Public Security officials continue to review legal options against the vendor. Over 70 percent of the funds for this project had been released as of 2003. Since late 2007, post has been unable to contact the vendor. Post has little confidence that this work will be finished.

In 2008, the NAS provided a 5 XTS4250, 2 XTL 5000 Motorola radios, 12 Furono GP37 CGPS/WAAS Navigato, 5 GPSMAP 76CSX, 5 Garmin cigarette lighter adopters and 5 Garmin Marine Mount.

Canine Units
In CY-2003, post contracted with CSI International for five narcotics detection dogs with a one-year training and certification package. The contract called for the delivery of the animals and an initial two-week training course followed by monthly follow-up training, leading to certification. One of the dogs died of chronic ehrlichiosis (transmitted by infected ticks) in June 2004. In 2004, the CSI owner took back a second dog to switch it for another, but no replacement was provided; the owner argued (falsely) that post had incurred a debt with him and that he had not been paid. One dog is still working but the other two will be retired soon. MPS K-9 handlers were certified on September 18, 2004. CSI has not followed through on promises to address concerns about the quality of the dogs it provided. Post will not consider CSI for future procurements.

A female member of the MPS canine unit participated in the regional Canine Instructors Certification Course in Guatemala from October 6-December 12, 2008. She obtained first place for her performance during the entire training.

Construction Projects
In 2003, INL funded the construction of a counternarcotics inspection station at Penas Blancas, located at a natural chokepoint on the border between Costa Rica and Nicaragua. The inspection station gave the PCD the capability it would not have had otherwise to inspect cargo at this busy point of entry. In 2003, NAS funded the purchase of tools, furniture and other equipment to outfit the inspection station. Also in 2003, the NAS secured the donation of a used 40-kilowatt Cumins diesel-powered electrical generator from Embassy San Jose for the border inspection station. Construction was completed in November 2003 with the exception of minor modifications. The inspection station was formally donated on April 2004.

Some ongoing drainage problems combined with cracks in the floors and walls have caused minor damage. During a January 2009 visit, some kitchen appliances, four fans, and two air conditioners were not working. Some of kitchen furniture was damaged and some of the office chairs were broken. However, despite these minor structural and furniture problems, the building is in relatively good shape and is being used for its intended purpose.
The NAS is researching the possibility of donating a fence to help secure the property.

The Coast Guard is located at the Pacific port of Quepos and has been operational since November 2003. The station and furniture were formally donated to the SNCG on February 2004. The NAO visited the building in October 2008 and noted that the overall condition of the building was good. Despite some minor maintenance issues, the building is being used for its intended purpose.

Miscellaneous Equipment
Four complete contraband detector kits or "busters" were donated to the PCD in 2001. Complete kits are deployed with PCD units located at Corredores and the port of Limon. At Penas Blancas, one of the density meters ("buster") was lost during an inspection; at the Juan Santa Maria International Airport, the equipment has become worn down due to heavy usage. This equipment has proven highly effective in detecting cocaine secreted in hidden compartments, fuel tanks, and tires of tractor-trailers crossing into Costa Rica. All of this equipment has been heavily used and is getting old and worn out. Some parts are moved from one inspection point to another depending on which parts of the kits are in good working condition. The optic fibers are worn out and scan images are blurry. Costly recalibration of the density meters is required with increasing frequency. With expected assistance from the Merida Initiative, post should receive more inspection kits in 2009.

In 2002-2006, two microcasette recorders, one transcriber, one night vision scope, four Nokia digital cameras, five cell phones and four lines, eight desktop cassette recorders and one piece of specialized transmission/reception equipment was donated to the CSE Prosecution Units in San Jose. Additionally, four Canon digital cameras and eight voice activated recorders were distributed to offices in the other four parts of the country. At the Periz Zeledon office, one DVD is not working properly and is in the process of being repaired. According to a letter dated December 2008 from the Chief Prosecutor's Office, all the rest of the equipment is functioning properly and is being used of its intended purpose.

In 2002, post donated 60 optical passport readers, 5 mobile inspection terminals and funded the development of software for the Directorate of Immigration. The optical passport readers are located at the Juan Santa Maria and Daniel Oduber, and Tobias Bolanos International Airports, Ports of Putarenas, Limon and Quepos, and the border crossings at Paso Canoas and Penas Blancas. Two mobile inspection terminals are located in the maritime inspection stations of Limon, Puntarenas and Golfito. The software is performing as expected. In 2005, the NAS provided a Brother Intellifax 4100 Machine. In 2008, the NAS provided 3 scanners and a HP multifunction (fax, scanner, printer and copier) machine.

In 2002-2003, INL donated eight GPS navigation systems for Air Section Aircraft (SVA) aircraft, two 6-man aviation life rafts with canopies, and parts. The donated GSP navigation systems have been installed in aircrafts and are functioning properly. The life rafts are damaged and cannot be used anymore; they will be removed from the inventory. In 2008, the NAS donated four HGU- 56/P helmets, 20 shoulder holsters with double harness with associated accessories, and 23 Nomex flight suits. The rest of the equipment is being used for their intended purpose.

During an October 2008 visit to immigration, GOCR authorities told post that one of the mobile passport readers had been irreparably damaged by a water leak in the ceiling above it. The other readers were broken and irreparable; those three readers will be removed from inventory. In 2003 and 2004, the NAS provided security ink and stamps along with appropriate security lockers. The GOCR intended to purchase additional ink and stamps to supply all posts of entry around the country. Immigration only located an appropriate local distributor in December 2007. The inks and stamps are not in use, although some stamps require constant adjustment to be used properly.

In 2003, INL procured two Epson digital cameras, two Sony digital camcorders, three Sony digital cameras, two Panasonic digital camcorders, 10 night vision goggles, five binoculars, 6 double cassette decks, two micro recorders, disguised as cigarette packs, two micro recorders disguised as eyeglass cases, three Sony standard cassette transcribing machines, three Sony microcassette transcribing machines, and two Sony mini DVD camcorders to the OIJ Narcotics Section. One of the Sony digital camcorders was stolen; one of the Sony digital cameras needs to be repaired, and one of the GE remote tape recorders burned out. The heads of the other GE recorders are worn out, but the cost of repair exceeds replacement. Finally, the six double cassette decks proved unsuitable for their original purpose. The OIJ Narcotics Section returned them to its Procurement Office instead of the embassy where they were redistributed among OIJ offices in San Jose and two courts. Otherwise, all this equipment is being used for its intended purpose.

In 2002-2004, post donated the following to the OIJ: 20 remote GE tape recorders, 2 Panasonic 13" monitors, 2 Epson digital cameras, 2 Sony digital camcorders, 3 Sony Digital cameras, 2 Panasonic Digital camcorders, 4 standard, cassette transcribers and dictator, 6 Sony radio cassette recorders, 2 voice activated recorders, 6 double cassette decks, 2 micro recorders disguised as cigarette packs, 2 micro recorders disguised as eyeglass cases, six double cassette decks, one card with 24 ports for Hicom 350 communication system, eight telephones, 15 folding police batons, 39 GE cassette recorders, 15 GE mini cassette recorders, two parabolic microphone handheld units and reflectors, one Epson projector, six Sony radio cassette recorders, two Black & Decker cordless drills, four SME L400II modified cassette recorders, two MiniDV Sony camcorders, 20 remote GE tape recorders, four standard cassette transcribers and dictator, and two voice activated recorders.

During a November 2008 visit, post found out that that two micro-recorders disguised as cigarette packs and two micro recorders disguised as eyeglass cases were not in use. Post also found out that one of the Panasonic Digital camcorders was lost after an operation but the police officer who lost it will replace it from his own funds. Otherwise, all equipment is being used for its intended purpose.

Surveillance Equipment
In 2003-2006, the NAS funded procured equipment to provide video and audio surveillance for PCD operations. This equipment was highly versatile, essential for officer/agent safety, and has been used for documentation of undercover narcotics purchases, providing valuable documentary evidence used in criminal judicial proceedings. However, some of this equipment, e.g., the Nokia cell phone audio transmitter, is outdated and easily recognized during operations. All of this equipment is well maintained and is being used
for its intended purpose.

Program Impact

Computer Systems
The numerous computer systems donated to the various GOCR agencies have increased interagency cooperation by allowing easier communications and information sharing between agencies. This had led to a more integrated approach to counternarcotics operations and helped address a critical resource shortage. Through the Merida Initiative, new/upgraded computer systems will help address this shortage, including the Central American Fingerprint Exchange (CAFÉ) and the Center for Drug Intelligence (CDI)

Surveillance Equipment
Undercover surveillance equipment donated by post INL continues to lead to corroboration of intelligence obtained by the OIJ and the DEA Costa Rica Office. The equipment has also greatly enhanced officer safety.

Communications Equipment
Additional investment in communications equipment helped the Costa Rican Coast Guard in a large seizure of cocaine in July 2008. Costa Rican authorities seized 21.7 metric tons (MT) of cocaine, of which 6 MT were seized on land.
In July, SNGC Director Martin Arias reported that thanks to this newly donated communications equipment, his services were able to seize over four tons of cocaine in one operation. This means that a relatively small investment of $31,000 in radios and the GPS' helped capture narcotics with an approximate street value in the U.S. between $50-$75 million.

Vessels
The vessel assisted the seizure of 15,7MT of cocaine in joint maritime operations with U.S. law enforcement.
Construction Project

The Penas Blancas checkpoint construction provided a natural checkpoint on the Pan-American Highway. Because of the Customs agreement between the other Central American nations north of Costa Rica, this border inspection station is the only effective one between Costa Rica and the Mexican border. During a January 2009 visit, the PCD officer said that they captured an "instruction" letter they found on a low-level drug trafficker, which gave detailed instructions on how to best avoid drug detection throughout central America. However, when it came to trying to cross Penas Blancas, the instructions said: "May God go with you" meaning that the narco-trafficers recognized that Penas Blancas was the toughest land crossing point in Central America for them.

Problems and Corrective Action Plan

Repair and Maintenance
Maintenance of some equipment and repair of minor structural and drainage problems at Penas Blancas border checkpoint and Quepos Coast Guard continue to be a problem mostly due to lack of resources.

Document: FY2009 Section 1022(a) Report

Program: Section 1004 Counter-Drug Assistance

NATION: Costa Rica PROJECT SUPPORT EFFORT: Operations Center, Barracks, & Pier. PROJECT CODE: 9493 FUNDING ($K): $2,700K DESCRIPTION: CALDERA COAST GUARD STATION: Operations Center, Barracks facility, & small boat pier. PROJECT TASK: Design and construct Operations Center. Design and construct Barracks. Design and construct small boat pier. Design and construct Operations Center. NATION: Costa Rica PROJECT SUPPORT EFFORT: Aircraft Hanger. PROJECT CODE: 9493 FUNDING ($K): $l,OOOK DESCRIPTION: Liberia Airfield - small aircraft hanger for MPA missions. PROJECT TASK: Design and construct hanger.

Document: International Narcotics Control Strategy Report

Program: International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement

U.S. Policy Initiatives and Programs Policy Initiatives. USG support to Costa Rica focuses on counternarcotics projects designed to reduce the flow of illegal narcotics and other contraband through Costa Rica and its territorial waters, which cover more than ten times its landmass. Bilateral Cooperation. The U.S. supported the GOCR?s efforts to improve interdiction by supporting projects that help improve the professionalization of its police; support interdiction efforts at border and mobile checkpoints to stop drugs flowing north and cash and weapons flowing south; provide information-sharing links to the border areas with Nicaragua; and technical assistance and equipment that enable the Costa Rica coast guard to patrol offshore. The USG also provided technical assistance and equipment, including drug detection kits and interceptor boats to the SNGC, via various funding mechanisms including the Merida Initiative. U.S. assistance also focused resources on interdicting maritime-based narcotics shipments to include containerized cargo. SNGC personnel continued to receive outboard motor maintenance training from the U.S. Coast Guard enhancing their capability to conduct preventive maintenance and troubleshooting techniques. The U.S. also supported reforms in police training.

Document: Bureau for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs Program and Budget Guide, Fiscal Year 2010

Program: International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement

"Program Accomplishments

In 2008, Dominican law enforcement authorities seized approximately 2.4 metric tons (MT) of cocaine hydrochloride (HCl), 96 kilograms (kg) of heroin, 15,949 units of Ecstasy (MDMA), and 219 kg of marijuana. The National Directorate of Drug Control (DNCD) made 14,674 drug-related arrests in 2008, a 15 percent increase over 2007. Through joint operations targeting drug trafficking organizations transporting narcotic proceeds through the various ports of entry in the DR, the DNCD and Dominican Customs seized over $2 million in U.S. currency. In 2008, the DNCD and members of the Dominican Armed Forces targeted South American narcotics trafficking organizations that were transporting large amounts of narcotics to the DR via aircraft. When feasible, Customs and Border Control (CBP) Blackhawk helicopters based in Puerto Rico were dispatched to the Dominican Republic to pick-up a Dominican Tactical Response Team and then transported to interdict in-bound drug carrying aircraft as the drops were being made. As a result of these joint operations the DNCD seized over 1,463 kg of cocaine and several aircraft. This dependence on CBP assets from Puerto Rico is driven by the outdated Dominican helicopters and equipment which prevents robust interdiction efforts over open water. On November 13, 2008, DNCD seized 274 FY 2010 INL Program and Budget Guide over 1,400 kg of liquid cocaine that was contained inside shampoo bottles at the Port of Haina, Santo Domingo."

Document: Bureau for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs Program and Budget Guide, Fiscal Year 2010

Program: International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement

"Program Objectives and Performance Indicators

Police Professionalization and Anti-Corruption

Enhance the capabilities of Costa Rica's national police and promote integrity initiatives to root out corrupt practices by police officers.

• The Costa Rican police transition to a community-oriented police force responsive to the communities served.



• Police professionalization training and provision of specialized law enforcement equipment enhances the accountability of mid-level police managers and ensures that they are able to effectively deploy their resources.

• Improved communications between Costa Rica and Nicaragua along their shared border and enhanced interdiction capabilities will stem the flow of drugs.

• The Costa Rican Coast Guard's (SNGC) operability and navigation, safety and communications capabilities will be improved and enable them to conduct interdiction operations more effectively.

Document: PANAMAX: Teamwork against terrorism

Program: Exercises

Fuerzas Aliadas PANAMAX is an annual exercise tailored to the defense of the Panama Canal against transnational threats. PANAMAX 2009 is designed to address a spectrum of possible threats, including terrorist acts against the canal, to ensure a multinational force can respond to any request for support from the Government of Panama while respecting national sovereignty.

Fuerzas Aliadas PANAMAX is an annual exercise tailored to the defense of the Panama Canal against transnational threats. PANAMAX 2009 is designed to address a spectrum of possible threats, including terrorist acts against the canal, to ensure a multinational force can respond to any request for support from the Government of Panama while respecting national sovereignty.

Ultimately Fuerzas Aliadas PANAMAX is about working together and learning from each other in order to promote trust and foster willingness for continued collaboration and teamwork. PANAMAX offers the opportunity to strengthen the ability to operate together which ultimately strengthens security of the hemisphere.

Participants and observers include forces from Argentina, Belize, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Netherlands, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, the United States and Uruguay. The ground portion of the exercise is being conducted at Fort Sam Houston and Camp Bullis, both in San Antonio from Sept. 13-21.

Document: Opening Ceremony Kicks Off FA PANAMAX 2009

Program: Exercises

More than 4,500 personnel from 20 countries began a 12-day exercise here Friday to train in a joint, multinational effort to ensure the security of the Panama Canal.

FA PANAMAX 2009 is one of the largest multinational training exercises in the world, and is taking place in the waters off the coasts of Panama from Sept. 11-22 with the participation of civil and military forces.

More than 20 vessels and a dozen aircraft are involved in the exercises. Participants are focusing on a variety of responses to any request from the Government of Panama to protect and guarantee safe passage of traffic through the Panama Canal, ensure its neutrality, and respect national sovereignty. Simulated ground forces are also participating at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas.

The FA PANAMAX 2009 exercise scenario includes sea-based training devoted to maritime interdiction operations, including visit, boarding, search and seizure. Virtual land-based training in San Antonio, Texas, will focus on command and control, stability operations, humanitarian assistance and disaster-relief operations.

FA PANAMAX 2009 participating nations include: Argentina, Belize, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Netherlands, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, United States and Uruguay. France and Mexico are scheduled to participate as observers. The Conference of Central American Armies, the Organization of American States and the United Nations will also participate.

Document: FY 2010 Congressional Budget Justification for Foreign Operations

U.S. foreign assistance will help Costa Rica improve its domestic security environment. Within this context, U.S.-supplied equipment, training, and technical assistance will directly support our top strategic goal of Peace and Security. President Arias has personally asked for U.S. assistance to improve security and defend against regional narco-traffickers in order to advance his goal of making Costa Rica the first fully-developed country in Latin America by 2021. Providing a safe and secure domestic environment as well as improving the health of its citizens will directly affect positive economic growth and prosperity.

Peace and Security: The United States will provide training and specialized law enforcement equipment not available in Costa Rica, including information systems that will enhance the accountability of mid-level police managers while allowing far more efficient use of limited police resources. This assistance will directly support U.S. counter-narcotics and law enforcement interests in a key area of the trafficking transit zone between North and South America. Through information systems assistance, the U.S. will also help to make criminal records and arrest warrants available to police nationwide.

The U.S. will also continue the training and professionalization of Costa Rican security personnel, managed by the Department of Defense. This training will help foster critical security ties with U.S. military and will include courses on intelligence analysis, patrol boat and small engine maintenance, maritime boarding operations, counter-terrorism, and leadership and management. Assistance will also support the provision of equipment to enhance Costa Rica’s search and rescue capability.

The U.S. will measure the success of the program by the rate of domestic crime, especially murder and assaults, and the number and/or percentage of successful criminal prosecutions. Additionally, we will measure how many major trafficking organizations and their supporting infrastructures have been disrupted and/or dismantled as defined by an identified hierarchy and significant international, national, and regional impact.

Investing in People: The United States will help fight HIV/AIDS throughout Central America. Efforts to contain the epidemic in the region focus on activities to increase HIV/AIDS prevention practices and services directed mainly at those populations most at-risk; improve the HIV/AIDS policy environment; and improve the delivery of comprehensive care and treatment for people living with HIV/AIDS. Programs will encourage Costa Rica to finish developing a national health emergency plan and participate in regional health initiatives.

Document: Costa Rica Leads the Way as Fuerzas Aliadas Humanitarias Gets Underway

Program: Exercises

Officials from Costa Rica’s National Emergency Commission (CNE) are leading the way as this year’s Fuerzas Aliadas Humanitarias (FAHUM) regional exercise gets underway here.

The first phase is an emergency simulation of a Pandemic influenza, to test the CNE’s staff’s abilities to conduct local and international emergency response. The second phase is a field exercise where CNE officials can evaluate and improve emergency response at the local, national, and international levels.

FAHUM 2009 is a collaborative event that involves first responders and regional partner nation participants. As a multi-staged event, it will combine a command post exercise and field training at multiple simulated “disaster site” locations to be conducted by civilian and military disaster responders in Antigua, Costa Rica, Grenada and Honduras.

Document: International Narcotics Control Strategy Report

Costa Rica will address maritime trafficking both through its own direct efforts and through continued collaboration with the USG. The U.S. encourages the GOCR to pass the Terrorist Financing bill in order to remain in the Egmont Group. The projected increase in the number, and improved training, of police should enable the GOCR to more successfully fight crime, including trafficking. Also the GOCR should improve their interdiction capabilities on their coastal littoral areas, continue working to reduce of crime rates, and establish a professional training for their police. The construction of SNCG Academy and maintenance facilities in Punta Arenas will enable GOCR to effectively maintain a force that is ready and able to respond at all times.

For its part, the USG will provide significant support in the coming year under the Merida Initiative—a partnership between the governments of the United States, Mexico, Central America, Haiti and the Dominican Republic to confront the violent national and transnational gangs and organized criminal and narcotics trafficking organizations that plague the entire region, the activities of which spill over into the United States. The Merida Initiative will fund a variety of programs that will strengthen the institutional capabilities of participating governments by supporting efforts to investigate, sanction and prevent corruption within law enforcement agencies; facilitating the transfer of critical law enforcement investigative information within and between regional governments; and funding equipment purchases, training, community policing and economic and social development programs. Bilateral agreements with the participating governments were in the process of being negotiated and signed at the time this report was prepared.