Ghost Shark Discovery: Costa Rican scientists say they may have found a new ghost shark species in Pacific waters near Cabo Blanco and Cano Island, based on a shorter snout, darker pattern, and a longer dorsal spine, with genetic work suggesting it doesn’t reproduce with known relatives—though comparisons with similar specimens from Peru and Chile are still ongoing. Dengue Update: Costa Rica’s Ministry of Health reports 1,411 cumulative dengue cases in 2026, with a sustained rise in recent weeks as mosquito conditions improve; 24 cases are flagged as dengue with warning signs. Venezuela Earthquake Rescue (Costa Rica in the mix): After eight days trapped under rubble at the Galerías Playa Grande mall in La Guaira, Venezuelan security guard Hernán Gil was pulled alive in a complex, multi-country operation that included Costa Rican rescuers; officials say he’s stable and receiving care. Public Safety & Crime: Evangelical lawmaker Gonzalo Ramírez is leading Congress’s security and drug trafficking commission, pushing to speed up reforms as organized crime evolves. Aging & Care Costs: Research highlights how private elder care in Costa Rica can run from about ₡500,000 to ₡1.6 million per month, often leaving families to cover gaps beyond pensions. Infrastructure Watch (Limón): Former President Rodrigo Chaves will coordinate the next execution phase of the Limón marina and cruise terminal project after a new law expands Japdeva’s ability to form strategic partnerships. Prison Deadline Shift: Costa Rica’s CACCO mega-prison for organized crime will miss the end-of-July finish date, moving to staged delivery with full completion projected around September. Archaeology vs Development: Work at a PriceSmart construction site in Santo Domingo de Heredia may be paused after possible archaeological material was found, prompting the National Museum to ask environmental authorities for immediate suspension and specialist review.