Maduro Target Freed From Detention

Opposition-Linked Venezuelan Maury Carrero Freed From Detention Following Precautionary Measures

On April 2, 2020, Venezuelan intelligence agents stormed into Maury Carrero’s home in Caracas and arbitrarily detained her without a warrant and taking electronics and valuables in the house. Two days later, she was charged with criminal association and concealment of firearms and explosives.

Maury was targeted because of a presumed relationship with an adviser to Juan Guaidó, the disputed interim president who has raised an aggressive challenge to Nicolás Maduro’s hold on power in Venezuela. To justify extending her arbitrary detention, officials have exploited the COVID-19 situation in Venezuela, citing the state of alarm that has been in effect throughout the pandemic.

Why is This a Key Case?

Maduro’s Bolivarian regime has committed an unending string of human rights violations, including the arbirtary detention, torture, and extrajudicial executions of journalists, human rights defenders, and even ordinary citizens who speak out against the government or engage in protest. Those connected to Maduro’s political challengers, like Maury, are at particular risk. So far in 2020, there have been 235 arbitrary arrests and 33 enforced disappearances in Venezuela. In 14 of those, the victims’ whereabouts are still unknown.

How is RFK Human Rights Supporting Maury’s Case?

Along with partner Foro Penal, the organization filed a request to the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) calling for Maury’s immediate release and to prevent violations of her rights to life, personal integrity, and liberty.

What is the Status of the Case?

On July 17, 2020, the IACHR granted precautionary measures in favor of Maury Carrero. Following the work by RFK Human Rights and Foro Penal, Maury was unconditionally released on September 2, 2020.