Hundreds of Inmates Riot at Venezuelan Prison, Citing Torture

Hundreds of prisoners have taken control of a jail in western Venezuela to protest alleged torture by prison authorities and demand the dismissal of the facility’s director, according to the Venezuelan Prison Observatory (OVP). The protest, which began on Sunday, saw inmates gather on the roof of the Internado Judicial de Barinas (Injuba), displaying banners with messages such as “SOS,” “We are tortured,” and “No more torture,” some written on bedsheets.

Thick columns of black smoke were observed rising from the prison, located in the home state of the late former president Hugo Chávez, approximately 500 kilometers from Caracas. Reports indicate that prisoners set fire to mattresses and bedsheets as part of the demonstration.

Prisoner Demands and Allegations

The unrest reportedly erupted following the arrival of a new director at the penitentiary center. Inmates claim they have been subjected to beatings and torture, prompting their collective action. The OVP stated that their teams have received reports from inmates alleging that at least 120 prisoners are being held in isolation as punishment. These claims add to previous alerts concerning “unconsulted transfers and prolonged isolation.”

Families of the inmates reported hearing detonations from inside the prison while the fires spread across the rooftop in Barinas. Videos shared online by the OVP depict inmates, with faces covered by T-shirts, protesting on the roofs of the penitentiary complex and burning mattresses. The chaotic scene also showed damaged objects on the floor, with prisoners asserting that it was a “peaceful strike.”

Official Response and Wider Concerns

As of the latest reports, Venezuelan authorities had not responded to requests for comments from the Associated Press. The OVP has urged the Public Prosecutor’s Office and other relevant bodies to take measures to ensure the safety and rights of the prisoners. Security forces were seen gathered outside the complex, where some relatives of the inmates also assembled to demonstrate.

The situation highlights ongoing concerns about conditions within Venezuela’s prison system, including alleged human rights abuses and overcrowding. International human rights organizations have previously documented issues of torture and inhumane treatment in Venezuelan correctional facilities. The OVP’s call for an investigation underscores the gravity of the allegations and the need for accountability.

What remains unclear

The exact number of prisoners involved in the uprising and the current status of negotiations between inmates and authorities remain unconfirmed. Details regarding the extent of any injuries sustained by prisoners or staff during the incident are also not yet available. The specific reasons for the alleged torture and the disciplinary actions taken against the inmates are also not fully detailed.

Key Facts of the Incident

• Location: Internado Judicial de Barinas (Injuba), Venezuela | Clarin Deportes, OVP
• Protest Reason: Allegations of torture, demand for director’s dismissal | Clarin Deportes, OVP
• Actions Taken: Prison takeover, burning of mattresses/bedsheets, display of banners | Clarin Deportes, OVP
• Reported Abuses: Allegations of beatings, torture, isolation of 120+ inmates | OVP
• Official Statement: No official comment from Venezuelan authorities as of latest reports | Associated Press

The Internado Judicial de Barinas, often referred to as Injuba, has become the focal point of this latest crisis, drawing attention to the systemic challenges faced by both inmates and prison staff within the country’s penal system. The protest serves as a stark reminder of the persistent calls for reform and improved oversight in Venezuelan prisons.

Source: Clarin Deportes, https://www.clarin.com/mundo/cientos-prisioneros-toman-carcel-venezuela-denunciar-torturas_0_2CcNRjUEUX.html