Tragedy in Costa Rica

It is reported, with little additional detail, that there was a tragic shooting incident in San Pedro, Costa Rica, on Monday that left an online gambling official dead.

Although the person’s name was yet to be revealed, it is believed that he was a site operator at one of the online gambling companies that are located in the country.

The person was shot when sitting in his car, with several bodyguards, who shot back at the offenders. Whether it was an attempted robbery or a clear case of murder is not certain. The incident took place in broad daylight.

Costa Rica
The small Central American country is a pivotal player in the world of online gambling. With no taxes paid for profits made outside the country, Costa Rica based companies, of which there were until recently about 200, have made a great living.

This has changed somewhat with the passing of the law in the US, the UIGEA, which bans online gambling in the US. To enter the UK market, now the largest in thw world, companies had to relocate to Europe or approved territories White Listed by the UK’s Gambling Commission.

Past Violence
There have been other violent crimes against online gambling site operators. One famous incident involved Calvin Ayre of Bodog attacked, in Costa Rica as well; his bodyguard was injured then. Another, in the Escazu resort in Costa Rica as well, included a driveby shooting.

Obviously all cases are unfortunate and tragic. We will continue following the story as details come in.