In Venezuela, concerns are mounting over the disappearance of Nelin Escalante, a veteran independent journalist last heard from on Friday. Escalante, known for his commentary on Venezuela’s economic issues, including recent discussions on the dollar’s fluctuating value, has been untraceable since he was allegedly detained by government authorities in Caracas.
Venezuela’s National College of Journalists (CNP) raised the alarm on Sunday, calling for Escalante’s immediate release. In a social media post, the CNP claimed Escalante was taken by agents from the Directorate General of Military Counterintelligence (DGCIM), a government intelligence agency. “We demand to know [Escalante’s] whereabouts and release,” the CNP said, voicing concern for his safety.
The press workers’ union (SNTP) also reported that Escalante last contacted his family on Friday, confirming that his colleagues had denounced his detention, though specific details remain unclear.
Escalante’s disappearance marks the latest in a series of detentions, with the SNTP documenting at least eight cases of journalists being detained since the July 28 presidential election. Escalante’s colleagues and press freedom advocates are now calling on international observers to ensure accountability and demand his immediate release.
Rights organisations, including the United Nations, have previously accused the DGCIM of arbitrary arrests and torture, raising fears for Escalante’s well-being.
Melissa Enoch
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