Venezuelan opposition politician Juan Pablo Guanipa was seized just hours after his release from prison, raising alarm among critics of the government. Maria Corina Machado, a leading opposition figure, said armed men in civilian clothes took him in Caracas around midnight. The incident came shortly after his return to freedom following an eight‑month detention.
Family members and supporters described the event as a kidnapping by unidentified, heavily armed men. Guanipa’s son said about ten men ambushed his father before driving him away in multiple vehicles. Machado demanded his immediate release and proof of life.
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Guanipa had been freed on Sunday along with other opposition figures amid pressure on authorities to release political prisoners. Rights groups said at least 30 detainees were freed, though many remain in custody.
Hours before being taken, Guanipa had posted videos addressing supporters and journalists. He called for the release of other political prisoners and labelled the current government illegitimate.
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Venezuelan prosecutors later said Guanipa would be placed under house arrest for alleged violations of his release terms, though details were scarce. The case has underscored deep political tensions and concerns over civil liberties in Venezuela.