La Guaira Under Military Control with Strict Access Restrictions Amid Earthquake Aftermath

Access to Venezuela's La Guaira state, the epicenter of devastating twin earthquakes, is under strict police and military control, with authorities implementing heavy restrictions throughout Saturday.

The tightened security follows a chaotic Friday, where private vehicles attempting to deliver aid and the desperate calls for machinery to clear debris overwhelmed the response. Hundreds of police officers are now working to organize and prioritize vehicles carrying aid and rescue equipment, causing significant traffic jams on the main Caracas-La GuProductRunnable highway.

Press access is also being controlled, with journalists being transported in a government-authorized bus along a designated route. The Ministry of Communications stated this measure aims to protect journalists from infection risks, nearly 72 hours after the earthquakes struck.

President Jorge Rodríguez implored the public to refrain from traveling to La Guaira independently to avoid hindering the transport of the injured and the deployment of heavy machinery for debris removal. He also encouraged potential volunteers to register for more organized assistance.

Rodríguez reported that the death toll has reached 1,430, with 3,238 people injured and 3,142 families displaced. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez announced that 2,600 tons of food and potable water were distributed overnight to affected families in the region.

“

No viajar a La Guaira de forma particular