Reuters U.S. bombings of suspected drug boats have led to heightened surveillance and patrols by security forces and government supporters in Venezuela’s Sucre state, causing fear among residents. This increased vigilance may reflect the Maduro government’s desire for stricter control over a region historically linked to criminal activity. Families of those killed in the U.S. attacks report being visited and warned by police and intelligence officials not to share information online.

• U.S. bombings of suspected drug boats have prompted increased surveillance in Sucre, Venezuela.
• Four residents and a recent visitor reported heightened patrols by security agencies and government supporters.
• Sucre, Venezuela’s second poorest state, is home to some of the over 80 people killed in the U.S. campaign.
• Families of those killed in the attacks have been visited by police and intelligence officials and warned against posting on social media.
• Venezuela’s government denies involvement in drug crimes and accuses the U.S. of seeking regime change.
• The increased surveillance might be Maduro’s government tightening control over a crime-prone region.
• Residents have observed an increase in security personnel, including plainclothes officers and uniformed agents from various agencies.
• Civilian groups allied with the ruling party, known as ‘colectivos,’ are also reportedly participating in patrols.
• The increased patrols have led to arrests, and checkpoints have been observed.
• The local economy in Guiria, heavily reliant on maritime smuggling, is showing signs of stagnation.
• In Carupano, the DGCIM has established a command center, leading to a decrease in public activity due to increased security presence.