Venezuela arrests Spain, U.S. and Czech nationals for 'destabilisation'
The Hindu
Arrests of Spaniards, U.S. citizens, and Czech in Venezuela deepen tensions with Spain and U.S. after disputed election.
Two Spaniards, three U.S. citizens and a Czech have been arrested in Venezuela on suspicion of links to alleged plans to destabilise the South American country, a top Venezuela official said on Saturday (September 14, 2024).
The announcement is likely to deepen the country's already substantial tensions with Spain and the United States after Venezuela's disputed Presidential election in July.
Venezuelan Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello in a press conference said two Spaniards were allegedly linked to Spain's secret service and planning the assassination of a mayor.
Spanish media reported that Spain's government denied this claim.
Mr. Cabello also accused three U.S. citizens and a Czech of involvement in terrorist acts, including alleged plans to assassinate President Nicolas Maduro and other officials.
The U.S. State Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
"These groups seek to seize the country's wealth, and we as a government will respond firmly to any destabilisation attempt," Cabello said. He added that about 400 rifles originating in the United States had been seized.
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