Venezuelan authorities have arrested several police officers for allegedly looting stores in the aftermath of a series of deadly earthquakes that struck the country's western region, according to officials. The arrests come as the death toll from the quakes, which began on Tuesday, has risen to at least 15, with dozens more injured and widespread damage reported.
Police Officers Among Those Detained for Looting
Interior Minister Remigio Ceballos confirmed on Wednesday that at least eight police officers were taken into custody for participating in looting sprees that broke out in the cities of Mérida and San Cristóbal. "These individuals, who were sworn to protect the public, instead took advantage of the disaster to steal from businesses and homes," Ceballos said in a televised address. He added that the officers face charges of theft, abuse of authority, and dereliction of duty.
The looting occurred as residents fled their homes after a 6.8-magnitude tremor struck near the border with Colombia, followed by several aftershocks. Eyewitnesses reported seeing uniformed officers breaking into shops and carrying away electronics, food, and other goods. Social media footage showed police vehicles loaded with stolen items.
Earthquake Devastation Worsens Crisis
The earthquakes have compounded Venezuela's ongoing economic and humanitarian crisis. The quakes destroyed hundreds of homes, damaged roads and bridges, and knocked out power and water supplies in several towns. Hospitals in the affected areas are overwhelmed, with patients treated in hallways and tents. President Nicolás Maduro declared a state of emergency in the states of Táchira, Mérida, and Trujillo, and deployed the military to assist with rescue and relief efforts.
According to the National Seismological Foundation, the main quake struck at a depth of 10 kilometers, causing landslides that buried several villages. Rescue teams are still searching for survivors under rubble. The death toll is expected to rise as more bodies are recovered.
Government Response and Public Anger
The arrest of the police officers has sparked public outrage, with many Venezuelans expressing anger on social media. "The authorities are supposed to help us, not steal from us," said María González, a resident of Mérida who lost her home in the quake. "We are already suffering enough."
Minister Ceballos promised a thorough investigation and vowed that all those involved in looting would be prosecuted. "We will not tolerate criminal behavior by anyone, especially those in uniform," he said. Meanwhile, the government has appealed for international aid, including food, water, and medical supplies, as the country struggles to cope with the disaster.
