In the wake of the tragic killing of a Canadian teacher over a week ago in Puerto Viejo, Limón, police have upped their presence.

Through a number of different patrols, as well as meetings and conversations with community members and visitors, police aim to create a peaceful and safe environment for residents and tourists alike.

An operation involving several different police forces has been put in place by the Ministry of Public Security in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, in Limón.

Deputy Minister of Public Safety, Juan José Andrade, announced that 40 officers are joining the 40 who were already stationed in the region.

At a meeting held early this week at the Chamber of Tourism and Commerce of the South Caribbean with community leaders, business owners, and Legislators Luis Vásquez and Danny Hayling, police outlined the work they would be carrying out.

This special safety campaign in Puerto Viejo will last for 100 days, with the possibility of being extended, said Andrade, and will include 24-hour motorcycle patrols by regular and tourist police officers. It will also include intelligence work, special operations, and coastal and sea work to detect and reduce drug trafficking.

Another strategy involves community police techniques that include visiting businesses and neighborhoods to talk with local residents about problems and concerns, which allows police to be aware of problems and ideally stop them before they occur.

Community policing activities also include talking with tourists about safety such as not giving out  personal information, traveling in groups, and watching out for belongings.

“This operation guarantees a police presence, both aerial, marine, and on land, as well as foot patrols in Puerto Viejo to work closely with local merchants and residents,” said Andrade.

The results of the operation have already begun to be seen, said officials.