Venezuelan Turmoil Following Maduro’s Capture
In the wake of Nicolás Maduro’s capture by U.S. forces, armed groups aligned with the Venezuelan regime are ramping up efforts to assert control over the nation. These groups, known as colectivos, are comprised of civilians on motorcycles and often carry firearms. They have been setting up checkpoints and conducting searches to root out anyone who appears to support Maduro’s removal.
During the recent inauguration of Vice President Delcy Rodríguez as interim leader, the National Union of Press Workers in Venezuela reported that 14 journalists were briefly detained by armed forces. Many residents are now too scared to leave their homes, fearing that their phones will be checked for signs of dissent.
Oswaldo, a 69-year-old shop owner, expressed his uncertainty about the future, saying, “The colectivos have guns, and the Colombian guerrilla is already in Venezuela, so we don’t know what’s going to happen.”
The colectivos are closely linked to Diosdado Cabello, a senior ally of Maduro, who has a $25 million bounty on his head due to charges of corruption and drug trafficking. Cabello has a notorious reputation for crushing political dissent and is seen as a significant figure as the situation unfolds.
Reports indicate that a crackdown began with a newly announced government directive aimed at suppressing opposition to the regime. This included a state of emergency aimed at capturing anyone involved in promoting or supporting the U.S.-led attack against Maduro.
Cabello, known for his role in domestic surveillance and control tactics, remains a key player in this tense environment. Analyst Jose Garcia noted that Cabello represents a more radical and unpredictable force within the regime.
In these turbulent times, Cabello has been seen patrolling the streets with armed security, reinforcing loyalty among his supporters through public displays of power. This suggests that even as Maduro’s hold weakens, the regime is determined to not lose its grip on the country.
The loyalist response to dissent reflects a clear message: despite recent changes in leadership, the ruling party plans to maintain its control in Venezuela.
