Chilean Interior Minister Carolina Toha has called on Venezuela to collaborate in the pursuit of justice in the investigation of the murder of Venezuelan dissident Ronald Ojeda. Ojeda, who had sought asylum in Chile after escaping imprisonment in Venezuela, was kidnapped and later found dead in a suitcase buried under lime powder and cement. The Chilean government has announced plans to seek the extradition of two Venezuelans suspected of being involved in the murder, and has emphasized the importance of cooperation from Venezuela in the investigation.
Toha stated that the murder of Ojeda is significant not only for Chile but also for Venezuela, and that it is crucial for Venezuela to demonstrate a willingness to collaborate in the investigation by discovering and bringing to justice those responsible for the crime. The victim, Ojeda, had been vocal in his criticism of the Venezuelan government and had been detained in Venezuela before escaping to Chile, where he was granted asylum. Chilean authorities have suggested that the murder was politically motivated and coordinated from Venezuela, and have arrested a 17-year-old Venezuelan suspect with alleged ties to a criminal network in Venezuela.
Venezuela has disputed the existence of the criminal group allegedly involved in the murder, leading to tensions between the two countries. Chilean officials have criticized Venezuela for denying the existence of the criminal group and have recalled their ambassador in response. President Gabriel Boric condemned Venezuela’s statements as an insult to the victims of the group and a lack of commitment to international security cooperation. Venezuela has denied responsibility for Ojeda’s murder and has yet to respond to Chile’s extradition requests.
The upcoming presidential elections in Venezuela, with incumbent President Nicolás Maduro seeking a third term, have been marred by accusations of intimidation and repression of the opposition. Chilean authorities have stressed the need for justice and truth to prevail in the investigation of Ojeda’s murder, highlighting the importance of holding those responsible accountable. Toha emphasized the significance of international cooperation in ensuring justice is served in cases like Ojeda’s murder, which has implications for both Chile and Venezuela.
The situation surrounding the murder of Ronald Ojeda underscores the complex political and security challenges facing both Chile and Venezuela. The call for collaboration in the investigation and extradition of suspects reflects the determination of Chilean authorities to seek justice and hold those responsible accountable. The diplomatic tensions between the two countries further complicate the situation, with accusations and denials creating a barrier to cooperation. The outcome of this case will have implications for future relations between Chile and Venezuela, as well as the pursuit of justice in cases involving cross-border crimes.
