Venezuela political prisoners launch hunger strike over torture allegations

A group of 15 political prisoners linked to ‘Operación Gedeón’ have launched a hunger strike to protest against torture and cruel treatment at the Fuerte Guaicaipuro detention center in Miranda, Venezuela. The detainees, who include military personnel and civilians, report severe physical and psychological deterioration.

Family members, including Jesica Castro, a relative of prisoner Gustavo Hernández, have described extreme sanitary conditions. They allege that detainees were denied basic hygiene for months, leading to dental loss, and were forced to consume contaminated water containing larvae. Reports indicate that many prisoners have lost between 35 and 40 kilograms and exhibit signs of severe isolation and physical violence.

The families claim that many of these individuals were victims of forced disappearance for months following an arbitrary transfer from the SEBIN headquarters in El Helicoide. They are demanding the immediate release of those who have already completed their sentences and calling for accountability regarding the treatment of the remaining detainees.