Costa Rica's Homicides Surge Due to Drug Trafficking.

Costa Rica experienced a record 657 homicides last year, with Limon being the epicenter of the violence due to disputes over the control of cocaine shipped to Europe and marijuana sold locally. The criminal dynamic has mixed with swelling ranks of young unemployed men who make up the majority of the casualties in fierce territorial battles. The violence has stirred a public outcry as the administration scrambles for answers, with authorities blaming drug trafficking and gangs led by Costa Ricans.