Venezuelan prison deaths rise as detainees lack medical care
The Venezuelan Observatory of Prisons (OVP) reported the death of inmate Francisco Orellano at the Western Penitentiary in Táchira, adding to a total of 18 prisoners who have died under state custody between April and May 2026. The organization said the deaths occur amid a broader prison health crisis, with many inmates suffering from respiratory illnesses, tuberculosis, malnutrition and delayed or absent hospital transfers, violating constitutional guarantees of health and physical integrity.
In a separate case, OVP highlighted the severe health condition of Daniela Alexandra Araña Gutiérrez, a 34‑year‑old detained in La Crisálida prison near Los Teques. Since 25 May she has experienced dangerously high blood pressure (160/115), nosebleeds and tachycardia, prompting calls for urgent specialized medical attention. The NGO alleges her detention is arbitrary, linked to her relation to an exiled Venezuelan military lieutenant, and warns the regime of applying a “Sippenhaft” policy that punishes families of alleged offenders. Both reports underscore the state's failure to uphold constitutional health rights for people deprived of liberty.