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At least 80 political prisoners walked free from Venezuelan jails Sunday as the government of interim leader Delcy Rodriguez gradually releases detainees following the US capture of former president Nicolas Maduro earlier this month.
The human rights organization Foro Penal said it was verifying the identities of those released at detention facilities across the country, with more releases expected.
"This figure is not yet definitive and could increase as we proceed with verifications," said Foro Penal attorney Gonzalo Himiob on social media platform X. The releases occurred in the early morning hours, according to Himiob.
Rodriguez's government, which assumed power after Maduro's capture by US special forces in early January, has promised to free a "large number" of Maduro opponents still languishing in Venezuelan prisons. According to Caracas authorities, 626 detainees have been released since December, though Foro Penal has documented only about half that number.
Director Alfredo Romero said on X that it was "likely that more releases will take place" as the organization continues its verification process nationwide.
Venezuela's political opposition and human rights organizations have criticized the slow pace of prisoner releases. Relatives of detainees have maintained encampments outside prison facilities, waiting for news of their loved ones' freedom.
The release of political prisoners has become a key demand from the United States as the Rodriguez government navigates its relationship with Washington following Maduro's dramatic removal from power. The former Venezuelan leader now faces drug trafficking charges in US federal court.
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