Venezuela detains 129 children after controversial election

Following the controversial presidential election on July 28, Venezuela's Vente Venezuela party reported that over 120 minors have been arbitrarily detained by the Maduro regime. The regime's crackdown on dissent has led to widespread protests, with the National Electoral Center declaring Maduro the winner without providing verifiable voter data. The response from security forces has been brutal, resulting in thousands of detentions and numerous fatalities. Venezuelan Attorney General Tarek William Saab denied any responsibility for the deaths, claiming no complaints against security forces have been filed. Among the detained minors is a 14-year-old boy, whose mother publicly called for his release, asserting his innocence. Another case involves a 16-year-old girl, who was accused of inciting hatred and subsequently suffered health issues while in custody. Reports indicate that she has experienced brain damage and is currently hospitalized. Vente Venezuela highlighted that the rights and development of these children are being severely compromised due to their unjust detention. One minor has been released under precautionary measures after spending three weeks in detention on terrorism charges. His father, who is outside Venezuela, initiated a campaign for his son's release. The situation reflects a broader pattern of repression, with estimates suggesting that the Maduro regime's actions surpass those of historical dictatorships in South America. The international community has raised concerns about the legitimacy of Maduro's election victory, especially as opposition groups have published evidence contradicting the official results. The Venezuelan Supreme Justice Tribunal upheld the election results, further entrenching the regime's power amid ongoing allegations of electoral fraud and human rights violations.