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๐Ÿ‡ป๐Ÿ‡ช Venezuela /Disasters & Emergencies

Report: GNB blocked medical personnel and volunteers from reaching La Guaira on July 18

From El Nacional · () Spanish

Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Sources not specified Context piece
  • Venezuela's National Bolivarian Guard (GNB) reportedly blocked medical personnel and volunteers from reaching La Guaira on July 18.
  • Those attempting to pass were traveling by motorcycle to assist in rescue efforts after recent seismic activity.
  • It remains unclear if the volunteers were eventually allowed to proceed or forced to turn back.

Members of Venezuela's National Bolivarian Guard (GNB) allegedly prevented medical personnel and volunteers from entering the state of La Guaira on July 18. The group, traveling by motorcycle, intended to offer support for rescue and aid operations following recent seismic events.

Reports emerged on social media indicating that the GNB established a barrier, blocking access to the state, which has been heavily impacted by earthquakes. Videos shared by journalist Gรฉnesis Novoa showed frustrated drivers questioning the military's actions.

One motorcyclist expressed anger, asking, "Why so much injustice, man?" He added, "For a damn policy, they don't let medical personnel pass. People who are going to help pull people out who are trapped down there."

Footage depicted citizens attempting to reason with GNB officers, who refused passage to the coastal region. The motorcyclists honked their horns in a clear plea for access. The article notes that there were no reports confirming whether the volunteers ultimately reached their destination to provide assistance or were compelled to return.

Why so much injustice, chamo?

โ€” MotorcyclistQuestioning the GNB's actions in blocking passage.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by El Nacional in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.