Venezuela: Increased security at supermarkets, risk of looting

Event

Hundreds of people reportedly gathered outside supermarkets in Caracas on Saturday, January 6, after the government ordered supermarkets to reduce prices on several basic food items. Security forces were reportedly deployed in the vicinity of local shops to maintain order amid fears of violence in the rush to purchase the newly marked-down goods, but no major incidents were reported. As of Monday, January 8, a normal security situation has been reported at supermarkets. However, protests related to ongoing shortages of food and other basic goods remain a possibility.

Additionally, at least 48 people were arrested for looting in Bolívar and Zulia states on January 6 and 7. In Caicara del Orinoco (Bolívar state), clashes between protesters and security forces broke out after hundreds of people attacked several shops; multiple people were injured. Clashes also reportedly occurred in Los Puertos de Altagracia (Zulia state). Security forces used tear gas to disperse a crowd that was attempting to loot a state-run store. A crowd also reportedly looted a truck loaded with food and medicine in Cagua (Aragua state) on January 7.

Context

Venezuela is facing an ongoing political, economic, social, and health crises.  Shortages of many basic goods have been reported across the country, triggering attacks on shops and looting in recent months.

Advice

Individuals in Venezuela are advised to avoid all large public gatherings due to the risk of violence. 

Furthermore, individuals are advised to maintain contact with their respective diplomatic mission closely monitor the situation and maintain a stockpile of enough food, water, and other supplies enabling you to shelter in place for several days in the event of a sudden deterioration in the local security situation.​