Latin America shines for its tourist jewels and corners full of charm that invite you to discover unique landscapes, vibrant cultures and unforgettable experiences. However, The United States issued a travel alert warning tourists about a country in the region that he considers especially dangerous and advisable to travel. What is it about?
The United States issued a level 4 security alert for Venezuela, which means “not to travel.” The warning urges US citizens not to enter or remain in the country, Due to serious risks such as arbitrary arrests, torture, kidnappings, terrorism, violent crimes, civil disturbances and a collapsed health system.
One of the most forceful points of the alert is the call to avoid the borders of Venezuela with Colombia, Brazil and Guyana. It is noted that many bordering areas are not clearly demarcated, which can cause travelers to crossly cross and face arrests or dangerous incidents.
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Venezuela
Source: Canva
Another critical aspect, According to the US embassy in ColombiA, is the impossibility of the US government to provide effective consular assistance within Venezuela. The Embassy in Caracas suspended operations in 2019, which implies that emergency or support services for citizens at risk cannot be guaranteed.
In addition to legal and security risks, the notice highlights the deterioration of living conditions. The shortage of medicines, instability in electricity and water supply, as well as political protests that can become violent without prior notice, make permanence in the country into a highly risky experience.
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What are the most dangerous areas of Venezuela?
Venezuela faces significant challenges in terms of security, with various regions marked by high rates of violence and criminal activities. Next, some of the most dangerous areas of the country are detailed, backed by reliable sources.
1. Caracas and its peripheral neighborhoods
Caracas, the Venezuelan capital, houses Barrios as Petare, considered one of the most dangerous in Latin America. According to him Venezuelan Violence Observatory (OVV), Petare has been the scene of clashes between criminal gangs, which increases the Risks for residents and visitors.
2. Border areas with Colombia, Brazil and Guyana
According to Reutersthe border regions of Venezuela with Colombia, Brazil and Guyana are known for their high criminal activity. These areas are used by armed groups and drug traffickers For illegal operations. The Venezuelan government has deployed military forces in these areas to combat these activities, as evidenced in the deployment of 25,000 soldiers near the border with Colombia.
Maracaibo, Venezuela
Source: Canva
3. Zulia and Maracaibo State
The Zulia state, especially the city of Maracaibo, has been identified as one of the most violent areas in the country. In recent years, Maracaibo has registered high homicide and other violent crimes indices. Although Zulia left the list of the ten most violent states in 2021, the situation in Maracaibo is still worrying.
4. Bolívar State and Ciudad Guayana
The south of the Bolívar state, particularly the city of Ciudad Guayana, faces challenges related to the illegal mining and the presence of armed groups. These activities have generated an environment of insecurity, with reports of confrontations and violence.
5. Sucre state and the Paria Peninsula
The Paria Peninsula, in the Sucre state, has been the scene of clashes between criminal gangs. The lack of police presence and the precariousness of infrastructure They have facilitated these criminal activities. An example of this is the massacre of San Juan de las Galdonas, which occurred in 2018, which evidenced violence in the region
Given the situation of insecurity in various regions of Venezuela, Travelers are recommended to exercise extreme caution. It is advisable to avoid the aforementioned areas and remain informed through official sources and local media. In addition, considering the possibility of hiring private security services and avoiding displacements during the night can be prudent.
