Venezuela: Inmates killed in prison riot in Guanare (Portuguesa state) May 1

Event

At least 46 inmates at the Los Llanos prison in Guanare (Portuguesa state) were killed and 75 people, including the facility's director, were wounded during a riot on Friday, May 1. The riot reportedly occurred as the inmates staged an escape attempt. Security forces deployed to the prison and fired on inmates as they tried to force open the main entrance. Reports suggest the unrest broke out due to a lack of food and water, in addition to restrictions on visitation rules due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak.

An investigation into the incident is ongoing and further unrest cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Individuals in Guanare are advised to monitor developments to the situation and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities.