Venezuela tortures minors accused of terrorism

Venezuela's socialist regime has been involved in the unjust imprisonment and torture of numerous minors on charges of terrorism, particularly in the context of anti-regime protests that followed the controversial presidential election on July 28. United Nations experts estimate that this widespread crackdown left 27 individuals dead and resulted in over 2,400 detentions. As reported by Foro Penal, a human rights organization, approximately 69 minors remain incarcerated as of November, despite some having been released. Families of these children have reported brutal treatment, including beatings and torture, with many minors being coerced into confessing to crimes they did not commit. Specific instances have been documented, such as accounts from mothers whose children have suffered severe physical and psychological trauma while in custody. For example, one mother described her son returning home with a broken leg and bruises after being held and beaten by police. In another case, a mother recounted that her son was tortured to force him to record a false confession, claiming he had been paid to commit violent acts against the police. These conditions have created dire situations, leading to mental health crises among some of the detainees. The situation has drawn international attention and condemnation, particularly as the Venezuelan Attorney General Tarek William Saab has denied any claims of torture, labeling them as smear campaigns against the government. In contrast, senior officials in the regime begrudgingly acknowledged the detentions of minors, shifting the blame to their parents for allegedly allowing them to engage in protests. This denial of responsibility highlights a stark divide between the claims of human rights abuses and the government's narrative which seeks to justify the treatment of these minors. Furthermore, reports suggest that conditions in the detention facilities where these minors are held are horrendous, including lack of proper nutrition, heat, and sanitation. Families have struggled to send food packages, facing exorbitant fees to ensure their children receive even the most basic sustenance. As the situation develops, human rights advocates continue to call for awareness and support for the victims of this regime's harsh tactics against children amidst a broader crackdown on dissent in Venezuela.