Venezuelan Opposition Security Chief Arrest Sparks International Concern

The security chief of Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, Milciades Avila, was arrested early Wednesday, according to her Vente Venezuela political movement.

The arrest occurs less than two weeks before the critical July 28 vote, where opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez is polling ahead of President Nicolas Maduro, who is seeking re-election. Machado, barred from election participation due to alleged fraud, claims multiple allies have been detained.

Machado warned the international community about escalating repression by Maduro against her campaign team on social media platform X. The U.S. State Department expressed concern over Avila's arrest, calling for his immediate release, citing violations in the electoral process.

Machado refuted claims that Avila was involved in gender violence against women who allegedly attacked her and Gonzalez. She maintains that the arrest aims to unsettle her election campaign team. Avila, her long-time aide, has been vital in her security, with Machado holding Maduro responsible for the safety of her 24 detained allies.

Non-governmental organization Foro Penal reported 102 detentions since the election campaign began. The Venezuelan Ministry of Communication and the Attorney General's Office have not commented. With international watchdogs dismissing Maduro's 2018 re-election, the U.S. calls for a fair and inclusive election. Several of Machado's former staff are seeking asylum at the Argentine embassy.

(With inputs from agencies.)