Title: Argentina Denounces Venezuela’s ‘Grave’ Rights Violation with Gendarme’s Disappearance
After over three weeks since the detention of Argentine gendarme Nahuel Gallo in Venezuela, with his whereabouts unknown since December 8, Argentina presented a complaint before the International Criminal Court (ICC) on Thursday, accusing Venezuela of serious human rights violations.
In a statement, Argentina’s ministry led by Gerardo Werthein declared, "This event constitutes a grave and flagrant violation of human rights." Minister of Security, Patricia Bullrich, issued a stern warning: "We will not allow the regime to hold Nahuel hostage. JUSTICE NOW, or there will be consequences."
Argentina’s foreign ministry also addressed the allegation by Venezuelan Chief Prosecutor Tarek William Saab that Gallo was "linked to terrorist actions" upon entering the country led by Nicolás Maduro, accused of repeated human rights abuses. The statement read, "Argentina has lodged a complaint with the ICC against the arbitrary detention and enforced disappearance of Argentine citizen Nahuel Gallo… naming prosecutor Saab in this case."
The ministry added, "This is a grave and brazen violation of human rights, indicating a systematic pattern of crimes against humanity in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, clearly under the ICC’s jurisdiction. Argentina will continue to utilize all legal and diplomatic resources to ensure the rights of Nahuel Gallo, protect human rights, and demand international justice."
Last Friday, Saab announced Gallo was "prosecuted for links to terrorist actions in the country," and accused Argentine authorities of participating in "subversive plans." Saab’s statement claimed the gendarme was arrested upon "entering irregularly, hiding his true criminal plan under the guise of a sentimental visit."
Gallo was detained on December 8 in Táchira, Venezuela, after crossing from Cúcuta, Colombia, via the Simón Bolívar International Bridge. He was visiting his Venezuelan partner and son. Upon entry, he was questioned by regime forces who confiscated his phone and luggage. Before losing contact, he managed to call his partner using the taxi driver’s phone.
Since then, his whereabouts remain unknown. Argentina’s foreign ministry had previously demanded Gallo’s immediate release. Venezuelan authorities allege he is "under investigation for his links to a group attempting destabilizing and terrorist acts from his territory, with backing from international far-right groups."
Tensions between Argentina and Venezuela have escalated, fueled by six opposition figures seeking asylum in Argentina’s Caracas embassy after the election, and recent power outages they’ve faced for over a month.
