Short Description
Amid the capture of Nicolás Maduro, pro-Maduro motorcycle gangs are instilling fear in Caracas by targeting Trump supporters, escalating tensions and sparking government crackdowns.
Read Time
4 minutes 15 seconds
Main Article
In the wake of Nicolás Maduro’s unexpected capture, Caracas has erupted in chaos, primarily fueled by armed motorcycle gangs known as Colectivos. These gangs, loyal to Maduro, have taken to the streets to intimidate and threaten Venezuelans suspected of supporting Donald Trump and the U.S. government’s involvement in the operation. Reports from residents reveal a grim landscape where masked men create checkpoints, stop vehicles, and search mobile phones for political content. This atmosphere of fear raises significant concerns regarding personal safety and freedom of expression.
Eyewitness accounts highlight how these pro-Maduro groups are conducting random inspections, often targeting individuals with social media posts sympathetic to the U.S. or Trump. Those caught in the crossfire are subject to harassment, where they either face intimidation or are compelled to delete content on the spot. The sheer visibility of these motorcycle convoys, equipped with automatic weapons, adds to the pervasive sense of danger, prompting many residents to alter their daily routines significantly. Some have begun leaving their phones at home, while others avoid major thoroughfares entirely, seeking to evade potential confrontations.
As tensions escalate, Venezuela’s interim government has declared a state of emergency and instituted a ban on any public celebrations regarding Maduro’s capture. This has empowered security forces with broader detainment rights and the ability to search personal devices without due process. The impact on journalists has been particularly alarming, with multiple reports confirming that reporters have faced detention and equipment confiscation. While former President Trump maintains that the U.S. will oversee the situation in Venezuela for now, vigilance is crucial. The violence on Caracas streets underscores the extreme fragility of the nation’s stability, leaving many to wonder about the prospect of further unrest.
Short Summary
The violent crackdown by pro-Maduro motorcycle gangs in Caracas reflects a dire political climate in Venezuela following Maduro’s capture. With authorities tightening controls and escalating fear among citizens, the potential for further instability remains high, marking a turbulent chapter for the region. Enhanced security measures and diminished civil liberties pose grave concerns for both residents and journalists.
