Event Summary
As of 8 January 2026, it has been reported that at least 11 people have been detained in Venezuela as a result of the publication of the State of External Commotion Decree in the country on 3 January 2026. These arrests have taken place in at least six states across the country.
According to available reports, the alleged reasons for the detentions include incitement to hatred, treason, and promoting the U.S. military operation on January 3. In some cases, individuals were released hours later; others were placed at the disposal of the public prosecutor and are presumed to remain detained.
In one reported case, two elderly individuals (aged 64 and 65) were detained in the state of Mérida. In another notable case, a man was detained in the state of Anzoátegui after posting a video on social media referring to the situation following the U.S. military action.
The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights has expressed concern that the instability generated by the U.S. military operation could lead to a deterioration of the situation in the country, and has called for respect for international law and the human rights of Venezuelans.