VENEZUELA: 19-yr-old protester shot dead, as death toll rises to 49

The unending unrest in Venezuela has witnessed the killing of a 19-year-old demonstrator identified as Yorman Bervecia who was shot and killed during a protest.

According to the nation’s chief prosecutor, the shooting of Bervecia brings the death toll arising from demonstrations to at least 49, the number killed in two months of anti-government protests.

“The country is verging on catastrophe. The health system is a disaster,” said Fernando Gudayol, a 50-year-old surgeon. “One is always afraid to come out, but we will carry on doing it until there is a change.”

Read also: Mass anti-govt rallies continue in Venezuela as protesters shut down roads

The opposition is demanding elections to remove President Nicolas Maduro from power. They blame him for an economic crisis that has caused shortages of food, medicine and basic supplies.

“A simple infection can turn into something serious for a lack of antibiotics and any kind of supplies, and for a lack of maintenance of the equipment,” said Eliecer Melear, a 41-year-old urologist.

Reports say health professionals hit the streets to denounce Maduro’s government as protesters torch former leader, Hugo Chavez’ childhood home.

 

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