Venezuela Restricts Access to La Guaira to Facilitate Earthquake Rescue Efforts

Venezuela has imposed access restrictions to the state of La Guaira, effective Friday evening, to aid in the ongoing rescue and recovery efforts after recent devastating earthquakes. The Ministry of Interior, Justice, and Peace announced that all entry into the state will be subject to prior government registration in Caracas.

Minister Diosdado Cabello explained that this measure is crucial for organizing rescue operations and ensuring that specialized personnel and resources can reach the affected areas without hindrance. The government aims to control the flow of people into the disaster zone, preventing those without specific assignments from traveling to the area and potentially disrupting critical work.

A mandatory registration protocol has been established at the Poliedro de Caracas. Security forces will maintain checkpoints along routes to verify registration compliance. Motorcyclists involved in rescue efforts will also need to register and will be issued identification vests. The government is also addressing potential public health risks and urging citizens and media to disseminate information about the restrictions to avoid unnecessary travel.

Authorities have reported approximately one hundred collapsed buildings in La Guaira. The preliminary death toll has risen to 920, with 3,360 injured, 48 hours after two major earthquakes struck the region. Additionally, 172 people remain trapped in collapsed structures, and 3,007 individuals have been displaced. Over one hundred heavy machinery teams are deployed for search and recovery, alongside 11,500 security personnel.

“

It is necessary for everything to have an order according to the moment we are living.