Venezuela Roundup: Treason, baseball, migrant arrests

Treason against opposition leader

Venezuelan prosecutors have initiated a treason investigation against opposition leader Maria Corina Machado for allegedly supporting U.S. sanctions against President Nicolas Maduro, following his contentious re-election. The prosecutor's office has asserted that Machado's actions infringe upon article 128 of the penal code, classifying them as "treason to the homeland." The U.S. House has approved the BOLIVAR Act, which restricts federal interaction with Maduro's regime. In response, Venezuela condemned the bill as a violation of the UN Charter. Maduro, who has claimed victory in a disputed third term during July 2024, faces significant allegations regarding electoral fraud and operates within a repressive political environment. Opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, who is reported to have attained over 67% of the vote, has sought asylum in Spain, RTE reports. Concurrently, the U.S. maintains its non-recognition of Maduro's presidency and endorses Gonzalez Urrutia as the legitimate president-elect.

Migrant arrests

In a separate criminal development, two Venezuelan nationals, Darwin G. Moreno-Conde, 24, and Yorbin Y. Allen-Hernandez, 44, were apprehended in Kirkwood, Missouri, for their involvement in an ATM skimming scheme. Their arrest resulted from a comprehensive investigation by the Richmond Police Department triggered by the discovery of a skimming device on an ATM, which affected numerous bank accounts. Employing Flock cameras and engaging in collaboration with various law enforcement agencies, the suspects were captured within 54 hours, kQ2 reports. They currently face felony charges related to first-degree property damage and theft, with bond set at $250,000, whilst additional charges are anticipated.

Venezuela-Iran relations

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has proclaimed a new phase in diplomatic relations with Iran following the Tenth High-Level Joint Commission meeting held at the Miraflores Palace. He lauded the 20-year partnership with Iran, underscoring the robust human and political ties that have been cultivated since Hugo Chavez acknowledged Iran as an emerging power. Maduro highlighted Iran's resilience and honour, expressing appreciation for the collaborative efforts showcased during the recent meeting, according to Plenglish.

Venezuela loses to US in baseball

Venezuela came back from a 5-0 deficit to tie the game on a three-run pinch-hit homer by Diego Castillo in the bottom of the eighth. Ward won it in the ninth. The night game will be Japan-Chinese Taipei. The medal games are scheduled for Sunday, November 24. USA Baseball reports that Ryan Ward hit a go-ahead solo home run in the top of the ninth inning to lift Team USA to a 6-5 win over Venezuela in its Super Round finale at the World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC) Premier12 presented by RAXUS on Saturday afternoon at the Tokyo Dome.

Sexual assault

In another alarming incident, a Venezuelan migrant, Jesus Alberto Pereira Castillo, was arrested in Colorado on allegations of sexually assaulting his employer’s 14-year-old daughter while residing in the basement of their home. Castillo, who entered the U.S. illegally in September 2023, is accused of committing the assault on August 29, 2024, before evading law enforcement. An extensive investigation culminated in his apprehension without incident. Castillo previously faced arrest for forgery and larceny, and a detainer has been issued by ICE regarding his case. He is scheduled to appear in court shortly, Fox News reports.