Former political prisoner José Breijo hospitalized after Ombudsman visit

José Breijo, a 73-year-old Uruguayan-Venezuelan former political prisoner, has been hospitalized in a critical state following an intervention by the Ombudsman's office. Breijo was granted release on house arrest on May 22, after serving nearly two years of detention in Tocuyito.

The operation was coordinated by Ombudsman Eglée González Lobato, who mediated with judicial and security bodies to facilitate Breijo's transfer to a health center due to his existing medical conditions. A special commission, including specialized departments for Health, Housing, and the Elderly, visited Breijo's residence in Bello Monte. They determined that both his physical condition and living environment posed a delicate situation.

The Ombudsman's office stated it acted as an institutional liaison to ensure Breijo's medical transfer adhered to principles of justice and human rights. Journalist Marjorie Méndez reported that Breijo's health is compromised by respiratory difficulties, emphasizing the humanitarian nature of the situation and the need to ensure his remaining days are peaceful.

Adding to his ordeal, Breijo discovered his home had been illegally occupied by a police official upon his release. Carlos Julio Rojas, journalist and coordinator of the Frente Norte de Caracas, reported that an officer from the Strategic Operations Group (GOES), affiliated with the Ministry of Interior and Justice, had taken over the apartment. This forced Breijo to sleep in the hallway outside his home in inhumane conditions on Tuesday, though he was able to reclaim his residence on Wednesday.

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Already this is a humanitarian issue that must escalate. We must guarantee that his days are spent peacefully.