Remains of Political Prisoner José Breijo Held by Venezuelan Forensics Service

Two weeks after the death of Uruguayan-Venezuelan political prisoner José Breijo, his remains remain in the custody of Venezuela's National Service of Medicine and Forensic Sciences (Senamecf). Breijo's family is awaiting authorization from the Public Ministry to release the body for funeral services.

Carlos Julio Rojas, a journalist and human rights defender, reported that the family has submitted a certified permit from Uruguay's Chancellery to claim Breijo's remains. Rojas stated on social media that the family wishes to honor Breijo in Venezuela, a country he deeply loved.

Breijo, 71, died on August 6 following health complications. He had been under house arrest after spending over two years detained at the Tocuyito prison in Carabobo state, facing terrorism charges. His death was confirmed by Rojas. Breijo's case gained attention earlier when he reclaimed his Caracas apartment after reporting that a police official involved in his arrest had occupied the property.

He was arrested in 2023 after photographing a flag with Arabic inscriptions. His health reportedly deteriorated significantly during his imprisonment, with journalistic sources indicating he suffered from respiratory issues and other health problems prior to his death. The delay in releasing his body has added to the family's distress.

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Two weeks after the terrible news of the passing of our Uruguayan-Venezuelan martyr José Breijo, we must report that his remains are under the custody of @senamecfoficial and we are awaiting @MinpublicoVEN, which must authorize the release of the body. 'Pepe's' family sent us a certified permit from @CancilleriaUy to be able to claim him and pay him honors in this Venezuelan land that he loved so much.