Venezuela to investigate opposition

Venezuela's attorney general, Tarek Saab, announced a criminal investigation into opposition leaders Maria Corina Machado and Edmundo Gonzalez for allegedly inciting police and military officials to disobey the law following protests against President Nicolás Maduro's disputed election victory on July 28. The investigation was prompted by a letter from the leaders urging security forces to support the people and respect what they claim were legitimate electoral results, with Gonzalez asserting he received 67% of the vote compared to Maduro's reported 51%. In response to the protests, Venezuelan security forces have initiated an operation termed 'knock-knock' to apprehend individuals accused of violent crimes, raising fears among protesters about potential repression. Advocacy groups report that minors have been targeted, often without legal representation, and face serious charges including terrorism. The situation remains tense as protests continue, with the opposition demanding recognition of their electoral claims and Maduro's resignation. The upcoming presidential term is set to commence in January 2025.