Official statements from the U.S. or Venezuelan government or reputable news sources

U.S. Navy Sailor Held Hostage in Venezuela, Pentagon Investigates

Sep 4, 2024, 03:50 PM

A U.S. Navy sailor has been detained in Venezuela, according to multiple U.S. officials. The sailor was detained on August 30, 2024, in Caracas by Venezuelan law enforcement authorities. Reports indicate that the sailor was not on official travel or approved leave when he traveled to Venezuela, despite a State Department warning against traveling to the country. The Pentagon is aware of the situation and is looking into the reports. The sailor is currently being held by Venezuela's SEBIN intelligence agency. Officials have referred to the situation as a hostage case involving Nicolas Maduro's administration. The reasons for the sailor's travel to Venezuela remain unclear.