Venezuela’s leader Nicolás Maduro has announced plans for an application enabling citizens to report anything they see or hear directly to the Bolivarian National Armed Forces (FANB). This includes opinions that may not align with the government’s stance.
During a televised conference, Maduro made the announcement. He mentioned that this reporting tool would be constructed on the framework of VenApp, a social media platform previously utilized by the regime to track dissenters.
Maduro emphasized the need for immediate action in collaboration with the military and various local militias, asserting that such measures are crucial for maintaining peace and order. He claims that this application would allow residents to report their observations safely at any time.
VenApp was introduced in 2022, aimed at helping Venezuelans express their frustrations over ongoing issues like utility shortages. Initially intended for general reporting, the app has since evolved to include features that assist users in accessing state-run markets and payment systems.
In July 2024, following widespread protests against a disputed presidential election, Maduro announced that VenApp would be modified to let loyalists report critics and demonstrators anonymously, enabling government actions against them.
The public reacted strongly when the app was upgraded to allow users to denounce what they termed “fascists.” After significant backlash, VenApp was removed from prominent app stores but remains accessible through web browsers. A related QR code reader application is still available on major platforms.
This directive comes amid rising tensions between Maduro’s government and the United States, partly due to a U.S. military operation against drug trafficking in the Caribbean. Maduro has claimed, without substantiation, that these actions are a precursor to an invasion aiming to remove him and exploit Venezuela’s resources.
Moreover, Maduro has been indicted in the U.S. on various drug-terrorism charges, along with other key figures in his regime, linked to an international cocaine trafficking network. A substantial reward has been offered for information that could lead to his arrest.
