After enduring months of uncertainty, five Spanish nationals have finally left the confines of Venezuelan prisons and are now en route back to Spain. This announcement was made by Spain's Foreign Minister, José Manuel Albares.
The news was confirmed this evening through the minister's official account on X, where he expressed his "joy for their release" and extended "the Spanish Government's gratitude to the Embassy in Caracas and everyone who facilitated their return."
Among those freed are two Basque individuals—Andrés Martínez Adasme and José María Basoa Valdovinos—who were detained in September 2024 on allegations of involvement in a plot against the government. Also on the flight is Canary Islander Miguel Moreno Dapena, a mariner arrested in June while investigating sunken wrecks.
Joining them is Valencian Ernesto Gorbe Cardona, apprehended last December, and the Spanish-Venezuelan activist Rocío San Miguel. San Miguel, a well-known human rights advocate, was detained in February 2024 as she attempted to leave Venezuela.
San Miguel, who leads the organization Control Ciudadano, was accused by Venezuelan authorities of charges deemed arbitrary by international human rights organizations. Her arrest became emblematic of the thousands jailed for political reasons in the country.
The release of these five Spaniards takes place amid a climate of significant uncertainty and anticipation among the families of other political prisoners in Venezuela. Organizations like Foro Penal estimate that hundreds remain detained for political motives.
Despite prior statements by Venezuelan National Assembly President Jorge Rodríguez regarding the release of a "significant number" of prisoners, no further liberations have been confirmed, as reported by El País.
Families and friends gathered around notorious Venezuelan prisons like El Rodeo and El Helicoide, waiting anxiously for news about their loved ones, in a tense atmosphere reminiscent of countless nights without answers or solace.
"We have to wait for the call," said one family member still in Caracas, caught between hope and fear of more silence.
Key Questions About the Release of Spanish Nationals from Venezuela
Who are the Spanish nationals released from Venezuela?
The released individuals include Andrés Martínez Adasme, José María Basoa Valdovinos, Miguel Moreno Dapena, Ernesto Gorbe Cardona, and Rocío San Miguel.
Why were they detained in Venezuela?
They were detained on various charges, including political allegations and arbitrary accusations, as part of Venezuela's ongoing political turmoil.
What is the significance of Rocío San Miguel's release?
Rocío San Miguel's release is significant as she is a prominent human rights defender, and her detention highlighted the widespread issue of political imprisonment in Venezuela.