Nicolas Maduro’s capture in Caracas could trigger violent power struggles among drug cartels, potentially disrupting cocaine supply chains and raising prices globally
Nicolas Maduro Faces Charges in New York Court
Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro appeared in New York’s federal court, where he criticized his “kidnapping” by US special forces. He stated, “I am a decent man.”
Maduro is accused of leading a cartel responsible for 75% of the cocaine smuggled into Europe, the UK, and the US.
Allegations Against Maduro
Narco terrorism expert Cesar Alvarez claims the ‘Cartel of the Suns’ gang, which Maduro allegedly supports, earns up to $1 billion annually from drug trafficking. This comes as cocaine production in Colombia reaches record levels.
Maduro was captured at his Fuerte Tiuna compound in Caracas and is on trial for ‘narco terrorism’ as part of ‘Operation Absolute Resolve,’ initiated by former US President Donald Trump.
Potential Impact of Maduro’s Capture
Alvarez warns that Maduro’s capture may lead to violence and a rise in cocaine prices as rival groups vie for control. He stated, “The head of one of the largest drug trafficking organizations has just been captured.”
He noted that there is a 90% chance that cocaine consumed in Australia, Europe, and the UK was produced in Colombia, with a 75% chance it passed through Venezuela.
Expert Insights on Drug Trafficking
Alvarez has extensive experience, having worked for the UN’s Office on Drugs and Crime. He believes Maduro has been involved in drug trafficking for over 12 years.
He estimates the cartel earns between USD $600 million and USD $1 billion annually from cocaine trafficking. Alvarez emphasized that cocaine production has been increasing since 2015, with over 300,000 hectares of coca cultivated in Colombia.
Historical Context of Drug Trade in Venezuela
The Venezuelan state’s involvement in drug trafficking dates back to Pablo Escobar’s reign. After his death in 1993, guerrilla groups linked to Maduro’s predecessor, Hugo Chavez, filled the power vacuum.
Chavez, who took power in 1999, cooperated with groups like FARC and ELN to fund their operations through cocaine exports.
Current Situation in Venezuela
Under Maduro, Venezuela has faced hyperinflation and economic collapse. He is accused of maintaining power by aligning with criminal groups like Tren de Aragua.
Alvarez stated, “Cocaine became a lifeline to sustain their own apparatus.”
Political Connections to Drug Trafficking
Exiled Venezuelan politician Juan Miguel Matheus claims Maduro runs a “gangster state.” He cites the 2015 arrest of Maduro’s family members for drug trafficking as evidence of connections to the drug trade.
Matheus noted that military and political leaders oversee trafficking routes and operations.
Violence and Crime in Venezuela
Venezuela has one of the highest homicide rates globally, with 40.9 murders per 100,000 people. Security forces are blamed for six killings daily.
Security analyst Agnieszka Palutkiewicz reported that Venezuela has 40 to 50 large criminal groups involved in drug trafficking and extortion.
Challenges in Combating Drug Trade
Alvarez mentioned that US efforts to combat the drug trade face challenges, especially with Colombia’s current president, Gustavo Petro, facing trafficking allegations.
He stated, “Reducing the amount of drugs being imported is a huge task.”
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Accusation | Leading a cartel responsible for 75% of cocaine smuggled into Europe, UK, and US |
| Annual Earnings | Cartel earns up to $1 billion from drug trafficking |
| Cocaine Production Area | Over 300,000 hectares in Colombia |
| Homicide Rate | 40.9 murders per 100,000 people |
