Venezuela has begun releasing individuals detained during protests following the July 28, 2024 presidential election. The government’s move comes after months of international pressure and criticism over the arrests. Attorney General Tarek William Saab announced the review of 225 cases related to post-election unrest.
The controversial election saw incumbent President Nicolás Maduro claim victory. Opposition candidate Edmundo González Urrutia, now exiled in Madrid, disputes the results. He claims to be the true winner based on opposition poll watchers’ records.
Protests erupted across Venezuela after the election. The government’s response led to at least 28 deaths and over 2,400 arrests. Approximately 190 people were injured, and around 500 public institutions were damaged.
Human rights organizations characterized many arrests as arbitrary. Some detainees reportedly did not participate in protests but were in the vicinity. Others were arrested in their homes after being reported by neighbors. Detainees faced serious charges, including terrorism and incitement to hatred.
International bodies expressed concern over the situation. The International Criminal Court ICC sent a commission to interview detainees’ families. The UN Fact-Finding Mission documented arbitrary detentions and poor conditions. The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights urged the international community not to normalize the situation.
Venezuela Releases 225 Post-Election Protesters Amid Scrutiny
The releases began on November 16, 2024. Various human rights organizations reported excarcerations from different prisons. At least 70 people were initially released from Tocuyito and Tocorón prisons. The Penal Forum NGO confirmed at least 25 releases.
As of November 18, 2024, the Attorney General confirmed the release of 225 detainees. Five adolescents were among those released. However, four minors remain in custody in Guárico state. Two Spanish citizens were freed, but 24 others remain imprisoned.
The Penal Forum reported that 1,976 people were still detained for political reasons as of November 15. This number includes 69 adolescents. The Venezuelan government maintains that these releases result from a thorough review process. They deny holding any children in detention.
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