Venezuela: Tensions rise as troops cross Colombian border /update 1

Event

On the night of Saturday, August 26, Venezuelan security forces allegedly crossed the Colombian-Venezuelan border and entered the town of Paraguachón, in the La Guajira region. The troops reportedly fired tear gas at residents before robbing them of cellphones, money, and identification papers. Around 20 security personnel were allegedly involved in the incident, and four residents were injured. The Colombian government submitted a formal diplomatic complaint to Venezuela; however, on Sunday, August 27, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro denied that the incident took place. Colombia’s Ministry of Defense is reportedly planning to increase the security presence in the region to prevent future incursions.

Context

This development follows a long series of progressively worsening crises affecting the restive country in recent months and years, including a breakdown of the democratic system, major shortages of gasoline, medications, food, and other basic necessities, an alarming spike in rates of violent crime, massive inflation and economic recession, and a resurgence of disease. Protesters regularly demand early elections, the resignation of President Maduro, the release of political prisoners, and humanitarian assistance from the government.

Advice

Individuals are advised to avoid the Venezuelan-Colombian border due to these and other security concerns. Many Western governments advise against travel to this zone as well as various other regions in the two countries.