Protests in Caracas Demand Release of Political Prisoners at Helicoide Prison
Dozens of family members and friends of Venezuelan opposition leaders gathered yesterday in front of Helicoide prison in Caracas, demanding the immediate release of political prisoners.
This demonstration comes as pressure mounts on the government led by interim President Delcy Rodríguez, which has faced criticism for the slow pace of prisoner releases despite announcing last month that a significant number would be freed.
Families and human rights organizations have reported that many detainees have been held for months or even years due to their political beliefs, expressing dissatisfaction with the sluggish pace of the release process.
Simultaneously, Rodríguez has pledged to close Helicoide, known for its history of abuse and both physical and psychological torture, and to convert it into a cultural, social, and sports center for police forces and local communities.
It is worth noting that the facility was originally a shopping center before being repurposed as a prison.
During the protest, minor clashes occurred between members of the Bolivarian National Police and demonstrators, who held signs reading "freedom for all" in support of a national amnesty law and the need to release all political prisoners.
The event highlights increasing domestic and international pressure on the Venezuelan government to uphold the rights of political prisoners, as authorities commit to reform measures aimed at closing a facility long associated with controversy and abuse.
