Venezuelan YouTuber Oscar Alejandro Pérez Arrested on Terrorism Charges Amid Government Crackdown
In Caracas, popular Venezuelan YouTuber Oscar Alejandro Pérez has been apprehended on terrorism allegations, as President Nicolás Maduro’s administration tightens controls on free speech ahead of upcoming elections.
The 37-year-old was detained at Caracas airport while en route to a southern national park, according to reports.
In a statement issued by Pérez’s family, it was mentioned, “Based on preliminary information, the arrest appears to be linked to accusations of involvement in terrorism-related activities.”
The family anticipates a hearing to be held, expressing hopes that the government will provide clarification and ensure Pérez’s fair treatment in accordance with his legal rights.
Venezuela’s government has increasingly resorted to accusations of “terrorism” to incarcerate opposition figures, human rights observers, and researchers in recent months. This intensified crackdown is seen as an effort to quash political discourse through intimidation ahead of elections slated for July, as noted by rights groups.
Last week, prominent opposition figure Marina Carina Machado was compelled to withdraw from the presidential race following the arrest of two of her key aides. Subsequently, Machado’s eleventh-hour replacement, 80-year-old philosopher Corina Yoris, was barred from participating in July’s contest by Venezuela’s electoral authority.
