UPDATE: Ousted Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has arrived in New York City for trial after being captured by US forces in a dramatic overnight operation. This marks a pivotal moment in international law enforcement, as Maduro faces serious narco-terrorism charges in the Southern District of New York.
New footage shows Maduro, dressed in black sweats and a hat, appearing somber as he entered the DEA headquarters in Chelsea. He was accompanied by federal agents and was seen holding a water bottle. In a video released by the White House, Maduro can be heard saying, “Good Night, Happy New Year,” as he was escorted into custody.
Following his processing at the DEA, Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were transported to the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, where they will await trial. The couple’s arrival sparked a jeering crowd outside the detention center, who chanted “dirty scumbag” as they were taken inside.
This operation, which unfolded early on January 3, 2026, has drawn significant attention due to the implications for both US-Venezuela relations and global drug trafficking networks. Maduro’s capture is a significant blow to his regime, which has been accused of facilitating drug trade and corruption for years.
Authorities confirm that the charges against Maduro and his wife have been in the making since 2020, when US prosecutors first issued indictments. The developments of this case are expected to captivate audiences worldwide and may lead to further revelations about the inner workings of the Venezuelan government under Maduro.
What’s next? Legal experts are closely monitoring the proceedings, which could set a precedent for international accountability of leaders accused of similar crimes. As the trial date approaches, more information is expected to emerge about the evidence against Maduro and the potential ramifications for his political allies.
This unfolding story is not just about a former president facing justice; it resonates with Venezuelans who have suffered under his regime and brings hope for accountability in global governance. Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
