Authorities are investigating potential sources of pollution in the Torres River following a coordinated operation involving more than 70 officers from the Public Force, Judicial Investigation Agency, and San José Municipal Police. The operation took place on Monday in the Rincón Grande de Pavas area, specifically at the entrance to Tajo Comag, where officials looked into possible illegal discharges of wastewater into the river.
As part of this intervention, two companies located in the area were searched to gather evidence and determine environmental responsibility. The Ministry of Health worked alongside the Directorate of Geology and Mines and the Water Directorate of the Ministry of Environment and Energy to conduct technical tests within their areas of authority to assess whether these companies violated current environmental regulations.
Mary Munive, Vice President of Costa Rica and Minister of Health, stated: “This intervention responds to a situation that we have been pointing out for months in the Tajo Comag sector. There is an express order from the Constitutional Court since 2024 to stop environmental impact in the area and, despite coordinated actions by some institutions, irregular practices persist that continue affecting both environment and public health. For this reason, the ministry has intensified its technical participation and does not rule out adopting additional legal or administrative measures as investigations progress.”
The investigation included tests using fluorescein dye, marking and verifying protected river zones, drone surveillance flights, and reviewing operating permits. These efforts aim to identify any unauthorized connections or discharges into the river. The Ministry of Health will continue working with relevant agencies as inquiries proceed.
Authorities plan to maintain security measures and monitoring in coming days to collect further technical information regarding possible damage related to pollution in Torres River.
