Costa Rica’s Ministry of Public Security and immigration officials confirmed in a press statement Thursday that Reynaldo Ruiz, a Nicaraguan stand-up comedian who had previously mocked Ticos (Costa Ricans) in a skit that was published in an online video to his YouTube channel which has 300,000 subscribers, will be denied entry to Costa Rica for a comedy show that was scheduled between March 18^th and 20^th.

The official statement claims that the measure is for the comedian’s own safety.

“This Nicaraguan’s life could be in danger if he enters Costa Rica,” the official statement reads, citing “intelligence information.”

“Costa Rica considers displays of xenophobia by small sectors of both of our countries to be contemptible. We respect freedom of speech but we consider safeguarding the physical safety of [Mr. Ruiz] to be of most importance,” the statement continues. “Xenophobia among Costa Ricans and Nicaraguans is rejected by both government which seek to improve their bilateral relations.”

Reynaldo Ruiz, also known as Rey Ruiz, is a stand-up comedian, actor, writer, producer and voice actor. Ruiz is best known for his televised program in Nicaragua, a parody and satire program which combines humorous sketches and satirical “news reports.”

Costa Rican officials said that airports and border posts have been alerted to deny Ruiz’s entry.