Armed Men Detain Opposition Leader in Caracas
Venezuelan opposition figure Juan Pablo Guanipa was taken again just hours after leaving prison, according to María Corina Machado. She said armed men in civilian clothes grabbed him in the Los Chorros area of Caracas.
Machado posted the claim on social media early Monday. She said the men arrived in several vehicles and forced him into one of them. As a result, opposition leaders quickly raised alarm.
Justice First Blames Government Officials
Guanipa’s party, Justice First, backed Machado’s statement. Party members said witnesses saw men point weapons at the group before taking him away. They described the act as a forced abduction.
The party also blamed senior government officials for any harm he may face. In addition, they urged the international community to demand his immediate release. They argued that authorities continue to target opposition voices.
Government Calls It a Legal Action
Soon after, government officials gave a different account. They said prosecutors asked a court to cancel Guanipa’s release. According to them, he violated the terms of his freedom.
However, officials did not provide details. They also did not confirm his exact location. Because of this, critics continue to question the government’s explanation.
Family Demands Proof of Life
Earlier that same day, Guanipa’s son Ramón celebrated his father’s release online. He wrote that the family hoped to reunite soon. Yet hours later, he posted a video demanding proof that his father is alive.
Ramón said he holds the government responsible for his father’s safety. He called for an end to what he described as repression.
Background on Guanipa’s Case
Guanipa leads the centre right Justice First party. He previously served as vice president of the National Assembly. In 2017, voters elected him governor of Zulia state. However, authorities blocked him from taking office after he refused to swear loyalty before the National Constituent Assembly.
Later, security forces accused him of terrorism and treason after he challenged the 2024 election results. He went into hiding. Eventually, officers detained him in May 2025.
On Sunday, rights group Foro Penal said officials released at least 30 political prisoners, including Guanipa. Still, tensions remain high between the government and opposition leaders.
Human rights groups argue that authorities have long used arrests to silence critics. Meanwhile, opposition leaders say these tactics aim to weaken dissent ahead of future political battles.
