Venezuela’s top prosecutor, Tarek William Saab, has reportedly launched a criminal investigation into opposition leader Juan Guaidó and his allies. The investigation is focused on allegations of conspiracy, terrorism, and treason. It accuses Guaidó and his supporters of participating in a plot to overthrow President Nicolás Maduro’s government. The opposition has continually denied such allegations, citing them as politically motivated attempts to suppress dissent in the increasingly authoritarian regime. It is noteworthy to mention that Venezuela has been experiencing a severe economic and political crisis for several years, marked by widespread shortages of essential goods, high inflation, and repeated clashes between the Maduro government and opposition forces. Guaidó, recognized by dozens of nations as Venezuela’s legitimate interim president, has faced numerous legal threats over his challenge to Maduro’s rule but has so far avoided jail.

Top Venezuelan Prosecutor Tarek William Saab announced the commencement of a criminal investigation against the opposition leader Juan Guaidó. This development comes following Saab’s accusations that Guaidó participated in a failed raid intended to overthrow President Nicolás Maduro.

The investigation is centered around Guaidó’s alleged ties to Silvercorp USA, an American security firm believed to have aided two former US soldiers in their attempt to infiltrate Venezuela. The soldiers, Luke Denman and Airan Berry, were arrested in May 2020 after an unsuccessful maritime incursion referred to as Operation Gideon. The two have since been sentenced to 20 years in Venezuelan jails.

Prosecutor Saab referred to the incident as a “frustrated attempt of mercenary incursion”, accusing Guaidó of signing the contract with Silvercorp USA that financed the failed coup attempt. Guaidó has denied these allegations, claiming no involvement with the firm nor the unsuccessful operation. He continues to challenge the Maduro regime, declaring it to be illegitimate and corrupt.

This investigation signifies a new chapter in the ongoing tension between the Venezuelan government and the opposition. While Maduro’s government appears to maintain control, the opposition led by Guaidó is recognized by several countries, including the USA, as the legitimate administration of Venezuela. This complicated political situation continues to escalate, with the focus now set on the potential criminal charges against Guaidó.