Venezuelan prison director sacked as inmates allege mistreatment
Clashes have erupted at a prison in Barinas, Venezuela, as inmates protest alleged mistreatment. Extra security forces were deployed after prisoners climbed onto the roof and burned mattresses. Organizations advocating for prisoners' rights have highlighted the poor conditions and mistreatment within Venezuelan penitentiaries.
- ▪Inmates protested on the roof of the Injuba prison, alleging mistreatment by the new director.
- ▪Witnesses reported explosions and gunfire during the clashes between inmates and security personnel.
- ▪The Venezuelan Prison Observatory has documented complaints about violent searches and solitary confinement.
- ▪Human rights organizations have long criticized the inhumane conditions in Venezuelan jails.
- ▪More than 400 political prisoners remain incarcerated despite recent releases under US pressure.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Clashes as Venezuelan prisoners protest over alleged mistreatment28 minutes agoShareSaveAdd as preferred on GoogleVanessa BuschschlüterLatin America editor, News OnlineBriceida Morales / AFP via Getty ImagesInmates took to the roof of the prison in protestViolent clashes have erupted between inmates and security personnel at a prison in the Venezuelan state of Barinas.Extra security forces were deployed to the jail after prisoners climbed the roof and burned mattresses in protest at their alleged mistreatment.Witnesses reported hearing explosions and inmates said they had been shot at.Organisations lobbying for prisoners' rights have long denounced the poor conditions at many of Venezuela's penitentiaries.Non-governmental organisation Venezuelan Prison Observatory (OVP) said that the…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at BBC News.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from BBC News
