Teenagers Released After Venezuela Election Protests

Over the weekend, at least 40 teenagers were released from Venezuelan prisons after being detained during anti-government protests that erupted following the disputed presidential election on July 28, where President Nicolas Maduro was declared the winner despite opposition claims of electoral fraud. The protests resulted in 27 deaths and over 2,400 arrests, with accusations from both the government and opposition regarding responsibility for the violence. Alfredo Romero, head of the human rights organization Foro Penal, confirmed the release of these minors across several states, while the total number of detained minors now stands at 68. Reports indicate that some of those released faced precautionary measures and recent actions have raised concerns regarding the treatment of detainees, including the transfer of minors to a penitentiary. The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights has also highlighted an increase in repression and arbitrary arrests in Venezuela. Venezuelan authorities have yet to comment on the situation.