Death toll from protests in Venezuela rises to 13

Hours after no less than eight people were electrocuted to death during a looting incident in the Caracas area of Venezuela according to local fire fighters, four others have been shot dead.

Six other people also suffered gunshot wounds as several other businesses, including two liquor stores, were looted and attacks were reported in the city’s metro system.

Read also: VENEZUELA: 8 victims electrocuted to death while looting shops

Opposition leaders accused the government of repressing protesters with tear gas and rubber bullets but standing idly by as businesses were looted. Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Delcy Rodriguez pointed the finger at the opposition, saying armed groups controlled by the government’s foes were responsible for the attack at the hospital.

“We reject and do not accept those irresponsible declarations,” said Henrique Capriles, a former opposition candidate for president who the government recently barred from running for public office.

Violent clashes between supporters of the opposition and President Nicolas Maduro have hit Venezuela this month. The opposition is asking Maduro to step down, accusing him of eroding democracy.

 

 

 

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