The Civil Police of Mato Grosso do Sul launched 'Operation Bitter Banquet' in Costa Rica to execute an arrest warrant against a man accused of sexual crimes against children and adolescents. Authorities have identified at least six victims, which has intensified the focus on the suspect, who is being investigated for the crime of statutory rape and for facilitating the prostitution or other forms of sexual exploitation of minors. The operation follows an anonymous tip that was initially reported to the Military Police and later transferred to the Civil Police for deeper investigation.

The investigation was led by the General Investigations Section (SIG) of the Costa Rica Police Department, which began gathering evidence based on the initial report. Police were able to compile significant indicators that the suspect was leveraging the vulnerable situation of children to entice them with food and money. This method of luring is particularly concerning, as it exploits the basic needs of children, drawing attention to the magnitude of the problem of sexual exploitation in the region.

The implications of this operation are far-reaching, highlighting a serious issue of child safety and the need for rigorous legal measures to protect minors. The arrest not only serves to possibly bring justice to the identified victims but also raises awareness about the dangers children face in their communities and the importance of vigilance among parents and social organizations. The police continue to urge the public to report any suspected cases of abuse, indicating a collective approach needed to address and combat child exploitation successfully.