Two priests arrested in Venezuela for alleged sexual abuse of minors

Two priests, Ramón Antonio Acosta and Carlos Eduardo Quintero, have been detained in Anzoátegui, Venezuela, following allegations of sexual abuse involving three minors. The arrests were facilitated by audiovisual recordings and testimonies that served as key evidence in the investigation.

Because the clerics hold military assimilated status within the Bolivarian National Armed Forces (FANB), they are being held under strict surveillance at a National Guard (GNB) facility while awaiting legal proceedings.

The Ermita El Carmen sanctuary in Barcelona has suspended public services and closed its access during the ongoing investigation. The Venezuelan Military Ordinariate has issued a statement expressing support for the victims and their families, while the diocesan seat has activated protocols in accordance with Canon 1717 of the Code of Canon Law.