Venezuela: Two detainees die in custody amid reports of medical neglect

The Venezuelan Observatory of Prisons (OVP) has reported the deaths of two detainees in custody.

Eleiner Sánchez, 55, the former director of the 26 de Julio Penitentiary Center, died on September 27 while held at the La Crisálida female detention center in Miranda state. According to the OVP, Sánchez suffered an intestinal obstruction and had repeatedly requested medical attention, which was reportedly ignored until her condition became critical. She had been detained since December 2024. Her son alleged that her detention was linked to her knowledge of internal corruption within the penitentiary system.

Separately, 68-year-old César López died on September 26 at a police detention facility in Guárico state. Reports suggest that a medication administered to him may have triggered seizures that led to his death. Family members have reported difficulties in retrieving his body due to administrative delays and the reported absence of a local forensic pathologist to complete the autopsy.