Justice Department Seizes $13m Aircraft Allegedly Purchased for Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in Violation of Sanctions
Authorities in the United States have seized a $13m aircraft in the Dominican Republic that was allegedly purchased for Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in violation of sanctions. The Dassault Falcon 900EX was brought to Florida, with Maduro not on board at the time of seizure. The US Department of Justice stated that the aircraft was “illegally purchased through a shell company and smuggled out of the US.”
The seizure is a result of increased pressure on Maduro’s government following contested elections in July. The US has imposed sanctions on Venezuelan individuals and entities since 2005, with former President Donald Trump expanding the programme to destabilize Maduro. Despite efforts to motivate free and fair elections, sanctions have been reimposed due to alleged violations.
The plane’s seizure is directly connected to the election, as Maduro has been accused of tampering with results and carrying out widespread repression. This action aims to hold Maduro accountable for his misgovernance of Venezuela, with at least 27 people killed and 192 wounded during protests. Maduro’s government has not yet responded publicly to the incident.