Title: Venezuelan Opposition Leader‘s Yern Accused of Kidnapping as He Takes Kids to School
Article:
In a alarming turn of events, Venezuelan opposition leader Edmundo González Urrutia has denounced the kidnapping of his yern, Caracas“>Rafael Tudares, in Caracas. Tudares was reportedly forcibly taken by armed, masked men while dropping off his children at school.
A tweet from González’s official account detailed the incident: "This morning, my yerno Rafael Tudares was kidnapped. He was taking my 7 and 6-year-old grandchildren to school when they were ambushed by armed, masked men in black, unmarked vehicles, plate AA54E2C."
The motive behind the abduction remains unknown, with various theories circulating. While González alleges that this is a kidnapping, it’s speculation whether it’s an act by state security forces or a routine arrest. Authorities have yet to comment on the matter.
Tudares’ Wife Defends His Innocence
Mariana González, Tudares’ wife and González’s daughter, swiftly responded to the incident. In her own statement on X, she declared, "Categorically, I attest to my husband’s innocence. Rafael is only guilty of being a loving father and protector of our family."
She mirrored González’s account, describing how Tudares was intercepted without any warning, dragged away in front of their terrified children. "What’s the crime here? Why was Rafael taken?" she asked, bewildered.
González Cancels U.S. Agenda
In light of the incident, González has canceled his remaining engagements in the U.S. His delegation will now proceed to Panama to continue their tour through the Americas. This tour aims to rally international support ahead of the January 10th inauguration.
González had planned to meet with Senator Durbin and other legislators but redirected his focus upon learning of his yern’s abduction. Previously, he had completed a meeting with several Republican lawmakers, showcasing documents proving his electoral victory on July 28.
González’s Legal Situation in Venezuela
González, who left Venezuela for Spain in September, citing political persecution, currently has an outstanding arrest warrant and a $100,000 reward for any information leading to his capture. Alleged crimes include inciting violence, usurping power, forging documents, money laundering, and more. González maintains that he won the presidential election and plans to take office on January 10, defying the government’s threats to arrest him upon return.