As of July 2025, Venezuela holds 948 political prisoners, including 88 foreigners, according to the Foro Penal organization. Among these detainees, 51 individuals are reported as missing. The majority are adults, with four adolescents aged between 14 and 17 years also detained. Opposition figures and human rights groups have highlighted concerns over judicial processes, citing cases such as Carlos Azuaje, a campesino leader detained since December 2024 and recently sent to trial without evidence for charges including incitement to hatred, conspiracy, and treason. His family and political party Voluntad Popular have described the judicial proceedings as a "judicial farce." Additionally, the case of journalist Víctor Ugas, detained for 11 months without adequate medical attention or judicial guarantees, has been emphasized by opposition groups. Ugas is noted for his activism and reporting, with his detention framed as a consequence of his political expression and support for social causes.
Voluntad Popular recuerda al periodista Víctor Ugas, a 11 meses de su detención: "Su único crimen fue acompañar luchas justas" https://t.co/j21kq604mm
💔🕯️ Hoy se cumplen 11 meses del secuestro de Víctor Ugas, joven preso político del régimen de Maduro. Once meses sin libertad, sin atención médica adecuada y sin garantías judiciales. Víctor no ha cometido delito alguno. Su único “crimen” fue alzar la voz, informar y acompañar https://t.co/IydWGHzh0q
88 extranjeros están detenidos en Venezuela: Total de presos políticos asciende a 948 https://t.co/xnnLVoP9lB