Venezuelan prison deaths highlight overcrowding and medical crises

The Venezuelan Prison Observatory (OVP) has reported recent deaths of detainees in Venezuelan correctional facilities, highlighting critical issues regarding overcrowding and medical care.

In Tocuyito, Carabobo state, Eliezer Navas died from mechanical asphyxiation at the Juan López Training Center. The OVP is calling for an investigation into the circumstances of his death and questioning whether authorities ignored warning signs. The organization noted long-standing issues at this facility, including inadequate food, lack of potable water, and insufficient medical attention.

In Coro, Falcón state, Edwar Arturo Muñoz died due to health problems while held at the Coro Penitentiary Community. The OVP reported that this facility is operating at 212% capacity, housing over 1,700 people in a space designed for 800. The organization stated that extreme overcrowding, combined with poor nutrition and limited medical services, exacerbates health risks for inmates.

The OVP noted that since April, there have been at least 59 reported deaths of individuals under state custody.