Foreign Relations of the United States 1977–1980; Volume XV; Central America, 1977–1980

335. Telegram From the Embassy in Costa Rica to the Department of State¹

San José, June 19, 1980, 2257Z

3483. For Asst Sec Bowdler from Charge. Subject: (C) Costa Rican Connection: An Augean Stable. Ref: (A) San Jose 3478,² (B) San Jose 3482.³

1. S-Entire text.

2. Subsequent to refs A and B, Seso has finally picked up what appears to be hard, detailed information on Costa Rican involvement in arms shipments to El Salvador, under the direction of the Cubans. It seems evident from this information that the recent aircraft crash was just the tip of the iceberg. Seso is also picking up indications that two of Carazo’s sons, Mario and Rodrigo, are involved, perhaps up to their respective ears. I am not sure whether the latter information will be reported at this time.

3. At this point it appears Carazo has fallen into a stable of Augean dimensions, that the accumulation of muck was the result of his own decisions (or negligence) and that the horse is Cuban. It is also difficult for me to see how he can clean the mess up without extremely serious damage to himself and his government. I recognize, however, that the Costa Ricans have a relatively high toleration threshold for governmental scandal. But it seems to me that Carazo has alienated the opposition, many of his own supporters and influential private sector elements to such an extent that resentment and disgust will probably pass over the traditional threshold.

4. I therefore believe it is increasingly urgent for the preservation of our own interests—which would not be served by greater instability in Costa Rica—that we urge Carazo to take prompt and dramatic action, especially closing up Cuban operations.

Binns

1. Source: National Archives, RG 59, Central Foreign Policy File, P870047–0090. Secret; Niact Immediate; Nodis.
2. In telegram 3478 from San José, June 19, the Embassy reported that the Chargé met with Costa Rican Public Security Minister Arguedas to discuss “recent events which directly link Costa Rica with the smuggling of arms and ammunition to Salvadoran leftists.” Arguedas conceded Costa Rican involvement in two cases. (National Archives, RG 59, Central Foreign Policy File, D800298–1045)
3. In telegram 3482 from San José, June 19, the Embassy reported on ammunition improperly diverted from Costa Rican stores and the crash of a Panamanian aircraft carrying arms to Salvadoran insurgents. (National Archives, RG 59, Central Foreign Policy File, D800298–1105)