Venezuela Confirms Detainee’s Death With Prisoner Releases in Dispute

Overview

• Edison José Torres Fernández, a 52-year-old police officer detained on treason charges since December 9, died in state custody on January 10, with the Public Ministry citing a cerebrovascular event followed by cardiac arrest.
• Foro Penal reports 41 confirmed releases as of January 12, contradicting the interim government’s statement that 116 people were freed.
• Monitoring groups estimate roughly 800 to just over 1,000 people remain jailed for political reasons across Venezuela.
• Families and human-rights organizations demand full, verifiable lists and details of conditions of release as they keep vigil outside facilities including El Rodeo I and the Helicoide.
• The staggered releases follow U.S. military action that captured deposed president Nicolás Maduro and increased pressure on the interim government to cooperate with Washington.