U.S. Seizes Maduro's Plane Over Alleged Sanctions Violations

The U.S. government has seized a plane used by Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, claiming it was acquired illegally via a shell company to bypass sanctions. The aircraft, registered in San Marino, was frequently used by Maduro for international trips. The Justice Department announced the seizure citing export control law violations.

The U.S. government has seized a plane used by Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, citing violations of sanctions and export control laws, the Justice Department said Monday.

U.S. officials allege that the aircraft was illegally purchased through a shell company and smuggled out of the United States.

The plane, registered to San Marino, was widely used by Maduro for foreign travel, including a trip earlier this year to Guyana and Cuba.

The government's centralized press office did not immediately return a message from The Associated Press seeking comment Monday.