Venezuela authorities detain 91 people after football fan murder

The Bolivarian National Guard (GNB) detained 91 individuals following the fatal stabbing of Luis Rafael López, a 31 year old Zamora FC supporter, in Barinas, Venezuela. The incident occurred on November 1 near the Agustín Tovar stadium prior to a Liga Futve 2 match between Zamora FC B and Deportivo Lara.

Security forces intercepted two buses near the Barinas industrial roundabout that were reportedly transporting supporters toward Barquisimeto. The detainees, consisting of 74 men and 17 women, were transferred to the Cicpc headquarters for identification and investigation. While some reports suggest the group may include six adolescents, bringing a potential total to 97, official confirmation of the final count is pending.

The Venezuelan Football Federation (FVF) and Liga Futve have condemned the violence. FVF President Jorge Giménez described the event as “inacceptable,” while Deportivo Lara issued a statement distancing the club from the actions of the individuals identified as their supporters.