Venezuela uncovers plot linked to politician Maria Corina Machado
On August 19, 2025, Venezuelan Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello announced the capture of Carlos Arrieta, also known as El Flaco, the individual responsible for constructing the explosive device used in a recent terror attack attempt at Venezuela Square in Caracas, reports 24brussels.
Alongside Arrieta, authorities apprehended Ariannys Araujo, identified as La Negra, who had connections with Colombian gangs for the delivery of explosives intended for detonation at the site. Cabello emphasized that these actions are part of a larger conspiracy connected to drug gangs, allegedly orchestrated by far-right politician Maria Corina Machado.
“Venezuela can be certain that all of this is linked to a drug gangs’ conspiracy led by far-right politician Maria Corina Machado,” Cabello stated, revealing that six additional individuals were also detained during the operation. The arrests were executed in Sucre state, within what Cabello described as a “sort of cave,” as part of an investigation initiated in November 2024 targeting drug trafficking and money-laundering networks operating domestically.
In a separate operation in Miranda state, security forces seized a significant cache of weapons, including explosives, components for explosive devices, 23 rifles, ammunition, two shotguns, an automatic rifle, and a .50-caliber rifle, typically utilized in military operations against aircraft.
Evidence suggests that fugitive Ivan Simonovis is the head of this criminal network, known for previous violent activities and illegal arms smuggling into Venezuela. Cabello accused Maria Corina Machado of orchestrating this conspiracy while allegedly residing in a luxurious apartment within the former U.S. Embassy in Caracas.
“They have lost all shame and don’t care about forging criminal alliances with drug-trafficking gangs and paramilitary groups,” Cabello commented, highlighting the perceived moral bankruptcy of those involved.
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro echoed these sentiments, alluding to historical ties and solidarity with neighboring Bolivia while condemning the actions of the conspiracy’s perpetrators.
