Venezuela’s Regime Increases Repression Amid Maduro’s Capture

José Antonio Colina, the president of the organization Venezuelans in Exile and Politically Persecuted (VEPPEX), expressed concern to Breitbart News regarding a notable escalation in the Venezuelan government’s crackdown on civilians and journalists following the detention of Nicolás Maduro. This government action comes in the wake of his capture alongside his wife, Cilia Flores, in Caracas during a recent U.S. law enforcement operation.

Colina, a military veteran and political refugee, indicated that the regime, which is now led by “Acting President” Delcy Rodríguez, has enacted a “state of emergency.” This decree gives police authority across various levels to hunt down individuals allegedly involved in promoting or supporting any armed attacks against Venezuela by the United States.

Recently, the Mérida state police announced on social media the arrest of two men, aged 64 and 65, who allegedly celebrated Maduro’s capture. Colina noted that there was widespread celebration in places like Doral and Madrid, but fear kept many in Venezuela from expressing the same sentiments. “Clearly, anyone caught celebrating can expect to be imprisoned,” he remarked.

He mentioned the increased threats from Diosdado Cabello, the Interior Minister, who is widely perceived as a long-time drug lord. Colina characterized these threats as reflective of the regime’s oppressive strategies. “It’s very concerning that Cabello leads the repressive apparatus, especially since he has stated any intervention will lead to him rebelling against the people,” Colina commented.

Colina described Cabello’s threats as “alarming,” pointing out that while the U.S. is facilitating Venezuela’s path to democracy, the regime seems to remain firmly in control. He highlighted the presence of armed socialist groups known as colectivos, which have been deployed to intimidate citizens, checking their phones for content critical of the regime.

Furthermore, the repression extends to journalists as well. On Monday, the National Union of Press Workers (SNTP) reported that at least 14 journalists, many linked to international outlets, were detained by regime officials. Of those, 13 were later released, while one was deported.

Colina noted that the regime’s retaliation against the media began almost immediately after Rodríguez’s “false” swearing-in ceremony. He criticized the government’s media monopoly and its attempts to silence any dissenting voices. “They are arresting journalists to create an atmosphere of fear; it’s a strategy to prevent reporting against the regime,” he explained.

Due to the extensive censorship, many Venezuelans relied on social media to learn about the U.S. military operation targeting Maduro, Colina pointed out. He also criticized Rodríguez and the regime for showing no intention of adhering to U.S. expectations regarding political prisoners, who remain unjustly detained. “A nation with political prisoners can’t be considered stable,” he emphasized.

Venezuelan activists urged the U.S. to verify whether Rodríguez and her associates are genuinely committed to Venezuela’s democratic transition, as many believe they are not fulfilling this role.