A recent report by Human Rights Watch has shed light on the involvement of Venezuelan security forces and pro-government armed groups in the killings that occurred during the protests following the disputed July presidential election. The organization's findings point to the national guard, national police, and violent gangs aligned with the ruling party as being responsible for some of the 24 deaths that took place amidst the post-election unrest.
According to the report, the government's response to the protests was marked by brutal repression, with arbitrary detentions, prosecutions, and a campaign encouraging citizens to report those involved in the demonstrations. The demonstrations, which erupted across Venezuela following the election results, saw thousands of people taking to the streets, resulting in clashes with law enforcement, destruction of property, and acts of violence.
