In Venezuela, at least nine people were released from the "Helicoide" (El Helicoide) prison, which is frequently cited for allegations of extreme cruelty of detention conditions and the use of torture. Among those released are well-known human rights activist Javier Tarasona and a number of political activists.
According to reports, the release took place on Sunday, February 1st, in Caracas, the capital of Venezuela. This prison, known for its harsh treatment and harsh conditions against Nicolás Maduro's opponents who opposed the regime, has once again caught public attention.
This was reported by the Venezuelan human rights organization Foro Penal. According to the organization, Javier Tarasona is among those released.
In particular, the human rights defender's brother, Jose-Rafael Tarasona, writes on the social network X: After 1675 days, that is, 4 years and 7 months, the expected moment came - Javier Tarasona was released. He expressed gratitude to those who contributed to this process, emphasizing that the freedom of one person is also a hope for others.
Foro Penal Vice President Gonzalo Himiob also commented on the incident, noting the importance of moving towards a complete cessation of every step towards freedom and persecution. According to the organization's assessment, more than 300 political prisoners have been released in Venezuela in recent weeks, but more than 700 are still in prison.
Notably, on January 30th, the government in Caracas announced plans to amnesty hundreds of political prisoners and close the Helicoid prison. In his speech to the Supreme Court, acting Venezuelan President Delsi Rodríguez stated his intention to adopt a general amnesty law covering the period of political violence since 1999.
It is also reported that after the US military captured Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro on the night of January 3rd, Caracas released hundreds of political prisoners earlier amid pressure from Washington. The Venezuelan government stated that this number exceeded 600, but human rights defenders are wary of this figure.
In short, regardless of the number of released individuals, this process could mark the beginning of a new stage in Venezuela's political landscape. Most importantly, these decisions are expected to lead to real changes, and the fate of those remaining in prison will be decided openly and fairly.
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