Venezuelan Prisoner Exchange Sparks International Investigations and Controversy

Venezuela's Attorney General is investigating El Salvador's President Bukele and officials for alleged abuses against detained Venezuelans. Over 250 Venezuelans returned from El Salvador's CECOT prison. Human rights abuses were reported, fueling political tensions. Venezuela and the U.S. conducted a controversial prisoner exchange involving gang deportations under the Trump administration.


Devdiscourse News Desk | Updated: 22-07-2025 09:10 IST | Created: 22-07-2025 09:10 IST
Venezuelan Prisoner Exchange Sparks International Investigations and Controversy
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Venezuela's Attorney General, Tarek Saab, announced on Monday that an investigation has been launched into El Salvador's President, Nayib Bukele, and two officials for alleged mistreatment of detained Venezuelans. The detainees, more than 250 in number, recently returned from the infamous CECOT prison under a prisoner exchange agreement with the United States.

Allegations of abuse including sexual assault, beatings, and denied medical care have emerged, with former prisoners showing injuries purportedly sustained during incarceration. While El Salvador's leadership has not commented, the allegations have garnered significant international attention. Human rights groups have criticized the deportations, carried out under the Trump administration using the Alien Enemies Act.

The political implications of this exchange are profound, as Venezuela's ongoing detention of political prisoners remains a contentious issue. Despite recent releases, over 1,000 individuals are still believed to be imprisoned for political motives. The situation sheds light on the complex dynamics of international politics and human rights.

(With inputs from agencies.)

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