Venezuela says 116 political prisoners released

January 12, 2026 / 8:19 PM

Relatives of political prisoners hold photos outside a Venezuelan prison awaiting news of their release

Sharjah 24 – AFP: The Venezuelan government announced on Monday that 116 political prisoners have been released since authorities pledged last week to begin freeing those detained under the presidency of Nicolás Maduro, who was seized by US forces in a raid on Caracas.

Government and Rights Group figures differ

While the Ministry of Penitentiary Services said the releases benefited those held for acts “related to disrupting the constitutional order,” opposition groups and human rights organisations report lower numbers of confirmed releases, with some groups citing only around four dozen freed so far.

Families await word on loved ones

Relatives of detainees have been gathering outside prisons, awaiting news on their loved ones as the release process continues. Human rights groups estimate that between 800 and 1,200 political prisoners remain in detention across the country.

International reaction

Non-governmental organisation Foro Penal reported that dozens of individuals were freed early on Monday, including foreign nationals, while various opposition sources also noted the release of a youth leader. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni thanked Venezuela’s interim government for the release of two Italian citizens and said arrangements were underway for their return home.

Background and context

The prisoner releases were announced last Thursday amid broader political pressure after the US capture of Maduro and ongoing international calls for justice. Human rights advocates say the releases are a positive step but caution that many political prisoners still remain behind bars.