Exiled Nicaraguan Military Officer Shot Dead in Costa Rica

Roberto Samcam, a former Nicaraguan military officer living in exile, was killed on Thursday in Costa Rica, according to his wife and opposition groups.

Samcam, who was a retired Sandinista major and outspoken critic of President Daniel Ortega's government, was shot dead in his condominium near San Jose, Claudia Vargas, his wife, informed Reuters. His demise has raised suspicions given his vocal opposition to the Nicaraguan administration, which has been accused by the U.N. and human rights groups of suppressing dissent. Costa Rican police confirmed Samcam's death and began their investigation, though no national police statement has been made available.

The Nicaraguan government has also not released any official comment regarding the incident. As investigations continue, Samcam's death resonates with ongoing tensions between dissidents and Ortega's government.

(With inputs from agencies.)