Armed Paramilitary Groups Intensify Crackdown in Venezuela Following Maduro’s Capture
CARACAS, Venezuela — In the wake of Nicolás Maduro’s reported capture by United States forces, Venezuela has plunged deeper into political unrest as armed paramilitary groups known as colectivos escalate their crackdown on perceived dissenters. These motorcycle-riding militias, often armed with assault rifles, have been patrolling the streets aggressively, conducting intrusive searches and establishing checkpoints to identify and punish supporters of Maduro’s removal from power.
Led by Diosdado Cabello, a powerful figure within Maduro’s regime and the country’s Minister of Interior, Justice and Peace, the colectivos have become the regime’s unofficial enforcers. Cabello, who carries a $25 million bounty from the U.S. Department of State for his alleged involvement in corruption and drug trafficking, is orchestrating efforts to suppress political opposition amid the leadership vacuum.
The crackdown intensified following a state of emergency decree published on January 5, which ordered police and security forces to “immediately begin the national search and capture of everyone involved in the promotion or support of the armed attack by the United States.” This directive has emboldened the colectivos to conduct widespread raids, often stopping residents on the streets and searching their phones for signs of dissent.
According to reports from the National Union of Press Workers of Venezuela, fourteen journalists were briefly detained during the induction ceremony of Vice President Delcy Rodríguez as the country’s interim leader. The move signals a tightening grip on press freedom and an effort to control the narrative amid the chaos.
Residents in Caracas and other cities have expressed growing fear of leaving their homes, wary of being stopped by armed militias. “The future is uncertain, the Colectivos have weapons, the Colombian guerrilla is already here in Venezuela, so we don’t know what’s going to happen, time will tell,” said Oswaldo, a 69-year-old shop owner, to The Telegraph.
This surge in paramilitary activity comes as the United States and international observers watch closely, concerned about the potential for escalating violence and humanitarian crises. The U.S. Department of State has condemned the repression and continues to support efforts to restore democratic governance.
Diosdado Cabello’s role as a key architect of the crackdown underscores the regime’s desperation to maintain control. Known for orchestrating domestic espionage and suppressing political dissent, Cabello’s colectivos now act as a parallel security force, blurring the lines between state and militia violence.
As Venezuela grapples with this volatile transition, international human rights organizations have called for restraint and the protection of civilians. The situation remains fluid, with the potential to reshape the country’s political landscape dramatically.
For ongoing updates on Venezuela’s political crisis and U.S. involvement, see the Central Intelligence Agency and Department of State official briefings.
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