Britons planning on going abroad to Venezuela have been provided updated travel advice after British nationals have been held on arrival into the country.
The nationals were held at Maiquetia airport in Caracas and at land border crossings for hours or days whilst authorities in the countries performed checks.
Britons have been questioned on the reasons for their visit, with some foreign nationals being detained and accused of terrorism.
Whilst being checked the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) have warned Britons they may not be allowed to contact relatives, friends or the British Embassy.
Since July, some foreign nationals, including Europeans, have been detained and accused of terrorism
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The FCDO wrote: “There is currently a more visible security presence across the country, including with military deployments. There are strict controls at border crossings, both via land and at airports.
“Since July, some foreign nationals, including Europeans, have been detained and accused of terrorism. In some cases, the relevant embassy has not been yet able to support those detained. Support from FCDO to any British nationals who are detained may be severely limited.”
It comes after the UK did not accept the legitimacy of the current administration put in place by Nicolás Maduro, the Venezuelan President.
The FCDO explained: “National presidential elections were held on July 28, 2024, and the presidential inauguration will take place on January 10, 2025. The situation in Venezuela is currently tense, monitor developments closely and keep up to date with this travel advice.”
With this ongoing inauguration, tensions are running high around the country and the FCDO has warned tourists of the risk of demonstrations and protests.
It said: “There is currently an increased risk of demonstrations and protests. These may become violent and could be dispersed by the use of force, including with the use of rubber bullets and tear gas.
“Avoid political rallies, demonstrations and crowds, and do not cross security-force lines or barricades.”
The FCDO also warned people of the lack of facilities currently around the country.
The FCDO advised people to stock up on everyday essentials
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It said: “Basic public services including health care and security, and the supply of electricity, water and fuel, have deteriorated in the last decade.
“Prolonged power cuts affect living conditions and cut mobile networks and internet. There are sometimes shortages of some everyday essentials. Consider storing tinned food and water.”
Holidaymakers have also been warned of power failures at Caracas International Airport which could cause delays to flights entering and leaving the country.
The FCDO advised: “Keep in close contact with your airline or travel agent to see if your flight is affected. Given the current situation, you should allow extra time to travel to the airport.”
