Venezuelan Ombudsman meets families of detainees from border operations

The Office of the Ombudsman in Venezuela has taken a significant step by meeting with families of individuals detained in border operations. This engagement, led by Ombudsman Eglée González Lobato, signals a commitment to addressing the concerns and "proposals" of these families regarding the conditions of their relatives' detention. The institution's reaffirmation of its dedication to human rights and the initiation of a roadmap to monitor these cases are crucial steps in ensuring due process and the integrity of the detainees.

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From the Ombudsman's Office, we reaffirm our commitment to the defense of human rights and initiate a roadmap to follow up on these cases, guaranteeing the right to defense and the integrity of the individuals.

This meeting comes at a time when families are increasingly vocal about their grievances. The use of the term "falsos positivos tancol"—an acronym coined by Venezuelan authorities to refer to "terrorist armed Colombian drug traffickers”—by the families to describe the detentions highlights the contentious nature of these operations. The situation is particularly sensitive given the recent plea by a collective of political prisoners' families to Colombian President Gustavo Petro, urging his intervention for 16 Colombians held in Venezuela and accused of "terrorism."

Since her appointment in early April, González Lobato has actively engaged with various groups, including union representatives and workers, demonstrating a proactive approach to investigating allegations of political persecution and poor prison conditions. From Venezuela's perspective, these meetings are vital for transparency and for upholding the rights of all citizens, regardless of the circumstances of their detention. It is essential for our national institutions to address these human rights concerns directly and to ensure that legal processes are followed rigorously, especially when dealing with individuals detained in the context of border security operations.

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While international coverage might focus on the geopolitical aspects or the accusations of terrorism, our national perspective emphasizes the importance of due process and the protection of human rights within our borders. The Ombudsman's role is critical in bridging the gap between the state and the citizens, ensuring that allegations are investigated and that the rights of the detained are respected. This proactive engagement by the Ombudsman's office is a testament to our commitment to justice and human rights.

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