When more than three million files linked to Jeffrey Epstein’s trafficking network were released earlier this year, governments around the world began examining the files for evidence of trafficking and sexual exploitation within their borders.

But while investigations are expanding across Europe and beyond, critics say the United States—where Epstein was first arrested over two decades ago—has been slow to pursue new cases.

Poland and Costa Rica investigate trafficking networks

Polish prosecutors have launched a human trafficking investigation into Epstein’s network, examining whether it recruited and transported women—including minors—abroad for sexual exploitation. Authorities suspect the network misled victims about employment opportunities.

Officials say they are also investigating possible Polish accomplices and have requested assistance from other European countries.

In Costa Rica, prosecutors have launched an investigation after the newly released files revealed 324 references to the country. Authorities are examining allegations that Epstein’s associates visited Costa Rica and may have been involved in the sexual exploitation of minors.

The associates include Ghislaine Maxwell—Epstein’s partner and accomplice—who according to the documents, told Epstein she was traveling to Costa Rica and planned to meet the newly elected president in 2010. Former president Laura Chinchilla has since said she was unaware of who Maxwell was before the events became public.

Reported by EL PAÍS, Karen Jiménez, president of the College of Professionals in Criminology of Costa Rica said:

The FBI identified a couple of US citizens who came to Costa Rica to negotiate the possibility of having sex with minors and whom they managed to arrest during a meeting,

Experts say the country has long struggled with criminal groups targeting vulnerable children in tourist areas. The newly released files have renewed attention on whether international trafficking networks operated there.

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