Venezuelan NGO demands independent probe into death of detainee Víctor Hugo Quero Navas

The Venezuelan NGO Justicia, Encuentro y Perdón (JEPVzla) has issued a strong call for an independent investigation into the death of Víctor Hugo Quero Navas, who died while under the custody of the Venezuelan state. This demand comes after the Ministry for Penitentiary Service officially confirmed Quero Navas's passing on July 24, 2025, at the Dr. Carlos Arvelo Military Hospital, following complications that arose after his transfer from the Rodeo I Judicial Internment Center.

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Exigimos la apertura inmediata de una investigación independiente, exhaustiva e imparcial, conforme a los estándares establecidos en el Protocolo de Minnesota sobre la Investigación de Muertes Potencialmente Ilícitas (2016), tras la admisión por parte del Estado de la muerte bajo custodia de Víctor Quero.

For months, Quero Navas's family and human rights organizations had raised alarms about his unknown whereabouts since his arrest on January 3, 2025. These concerns led to numerous inquiries with state bodies and public accusations of forced disappearance. JEPVzla's statement highlights the critical need for the investigation to be conducted under international standards, specifically referencing the Minnesota Protocol on the Investigation of Potentially Unlawful Deaths (2016).

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La investigación no puede quedar bajo control de las mismas instituciones estatales responsables de la custodia de la víctima, especialmente cuando existen elementos objetivos que comprometen la transparencia y credibilidad de la actuación oficial.

The NGO has voiced significant concerns regarding the official narrative, pointing out chronological inconsistencies and a lack of supporting documentation. JEPVzla disputes the claim that Quero Navas's family was absent, noting that his mother, Carmen Navas, actively pursued information through the Public Ministry and the Ombudsman's Office. The organization questions the transparency and credibility of an investigation that might remain under the control of institutions directly responsible for the detainee's custody.

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Según JEPVzla, la versión oficial sobre la supuesta ausencia de familiares “carece de sustento documental”, debido a que la madre del detenido, Carmen Navas, habría realizado múltiples trámites ante el Ministerio Público y la Defensoría del Pueblo buscando información sobre su hijo.

This case underscores a recurring issue in Venezuela: the lack of independent oversight and accountability in deaths occurring within state detention facilities. The insistence by JEPVzla on an impartial investigation, free from institutional bias, is crucial for ensuring justice for Víctor Hugo Quero Navas and his family. It is imperative that the Venezuelan authorities facilitate a thorough and transparent process that adheres to international human rights standards, providing answers and accountability where they are currently lacking.

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Resulta particularmente grave que, el 24 de octubre de 2025, la Defensoría del Pueblo —tras consulta formal al Ministerio Público— le informara