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Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Looting and theft have broken out in La Guaira, Venezuela, following a devastating earthquake.
- Residents report that pharmacies, supermarkets, and other businesses have been ransacked, with accusations of theft against police and military personnel.
- The looting occurs amidst a backdrop of chronic crisis and slow, meager aid from authorities, leading to anger and demands for security and assistance.
In the aftermath of a devastating earthquake in Venezuela, widespread looting and theft have plagued the coastal state of La Guaira, leaving a landscape of rubble and desperation.
Is it fair that our people are devouring each other?
Residents report that numerous businesses, including a major pharmacy chain, supermarkets, and smaller stores, have been ransacked. Videos circulating on social media appear to show groups of people carrying away appliances and other goods from collapsed stores. Accusations have also surfaced online, alleging that police and military personnel have been involved in stealing from homes and even the deceased.
They even took the wiring.
This surge in opportunistic crime is occurring against the backdrop of Venezuela's ongoing chronic crisis, exacerbating the suffering of those who have lost everything. Many attribute the looting not only to disaster opportunism but also to the profound hunger and destitution faced by the population.
They were stepping over his body to loot. It was a supermarket.
Anger is mounting among Venezuelans over the slow and insufficient aid provided by the authorities following the twin earthquakes, which have claimed at least 1,450 lives and left tens of thousands missing. Survivors are demanding not only rescue efforts but also improved security and essential assistance with food, water, and medicine. The government has militarized the state and imposed access restrictions, requiring safe-conduct passes from Caracas.
There's nothing here. They stole everything: our clothes, shoes, utensils, pots, cups, glasses.
Originally published by Daily Star. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.