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Venezuela begins releasing political prisoners

Ryan Allen
January 10, 2026

The move comes days after US forces abducted President Nicolas Maduro and put him in front of a US judge to face drugs charges. Rights groups estimate that some 800 political prisoners are being held in Venezuelan jails.

https://p.dw.com/p/56YUq

Venezuela has begun releasing political prisoners from Caracas' notorious Helicoide jail, days after US forces toppled disputer leader Nicolas Maduro. Among those freed is activist Rocio San Miguel, detained for nearly two years over an alleged assassination plot.

Officials call the move a gesture for peace and national unity, as families await reunions and leaders seek to restore the country's image amid an uncertain future.