In a shocking midnight operation condemned by human rights groups, dozens of Venezuelan migrants were forcibly detained in a coordinated raid by local authorities. The incident—unfolding in a residential neighborhood—left families traumatized, with none of the detained individuals charged with crimes, raising concerns about due process and xenophobia.
The Raid: Chaos Under Cover of Darkness
Eyewitnesses described scenes of terror as armed officers stormed homes after midnight. “They banged on doors, shouted commands, and dragged people out,” said María González, a Venezuelan legal resident. Many detainees held valid work permits, yet were treated as criminals. Social media footage shows families, including children, forced into police vans without explanation.
No Charges Filed—Only Fear and Confusion
After hours in custody, migrants were released without charges. Authorities called it a “document verification” operation, but activists labeled it unlawful intimidation.
“This wasn’t about security—it was discrimination,” said Ravi Nair of the Human Rights Defense Coalition. Legal experts agree: mass detentions without probable cause violate international law.
“I Lost Everything”: The Aftermath of the Raid
For detainees, the consequences were devastating. Carlos Mendoza, a construction worker, lost his job after his detention. “My boss said he didn’t want ‘trouble.’ Now I have nothing.” Others reported missing medications, lost wages, and trauma—especially among children.
Political Fallout and Demands for Accountability
The raid fueled migration policy debates, with opposition leaders slamming the government’s heavy-handed tactics. Pro-government officials called it “necessary,” yet provided no evidence of criminal activity by detainees.
Human rights groups are now pursuing legal action. “We demand answers,” said Nair. Meanwhile, affected families remain fearful of another raid.
Stay with NextMinuteNews for updates on this developing story.
