Venezuela Prisoners' Hopes Rise as Maduro's Fall Sparks Promise of Freedom

In a glimmer of hope, Venezuelan prisoners' families have been spreading the news of Nicolas Maduro's capture to their loved ones behind bars. The deposed leader, taken into custody by US forces, faces trial on drug-trafficking and weapons charges. Following the announcement, the interim government promised to release jailed opponents. As family visiting days resumed, relatives cautiously shared the news with their incarcerated loved ones. Some used coded language, but the message was clear: Maduro, the man responsible for their detention, is now behind bars. Inmates' faces lit up with joy as they heard the news, with one prisoner's wife reporting that her husband 'smiled happily' upon hearing the news. However, outside the prison walls, relatives remain cautious, having witnessed the government's past reneged promises. 'You never know if they were beaten or thrown into the time machine,' said one sister of a detainee, referring to a punishment cell used in the jail. As families visited their loved ones on Saturday, they brought essential items, such as deodorant and disinfectant, to maintain hygiene in the prison cells. Although the visiting process proceeded as usual, relatives sensed a more hostile atmosphere among the guards. Despite the challenges, families remain hopeful, with some inmates reporting that they could hear the national anthem and hymns sung by families holding vigils outside the prison. As one relative said, 'We have to keep going. It gives them strength.' The families are holding onto the promise of freedom, albeit with caution, as they wait for the government to follow through on its promise to release the jailed opponents.