Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Venezuela’s Claimed Mass Prisoner Releases Disputed as NGOs Verify Only Dozens

Spain confirms additional nationals released, highlighting calls for transparent, verifiable lists.

Overview

  • Venezuela’s penitentiary authority said 116 people were freed, while National Assembly chief Jorge Rodríguez later asserted that more than 400 have been released.
  • Independent tallies lag far behind official figures, with Foro Penal verifying about 56 releases and the opposition PUD listing up to 76, reflecting a widening discrepancy.
  • Spain’s foreign minister reported three more Spanish citizens freed on Monday, bringing the total to eight, and NGOs noted the release of dual national Sofía Sahagún en route to Madrid.
  • Recent excarcerations include the Argentine-Israeli Yaacob Harary and two Italians, as Italy and other governments confirm select cases and seek further releases.
  • Families have set up camps outside prisons such as El Rodeo I, rights groups and UN fact-finders criticize opaque, selective procedures, and authorities confirmed the in-custody death of Edison Torres Fernández.