On December 9, Venezuelan lawmakers presented at the International Criminal Court evidence of what they qualify as a “massacre,” which resulted in the death of former police officer Óscar Pérez and other agents at the hands of State security forces nearly two years ago.
Former National Assembly representative Wilmer Azuaje and member of the Permanent Commission on Security and Defense, Franco Casella, introduced more than 400 pictures, videos, and other documents about the incident to the court.
The material the lawmakers introduced is part of a series of documents Spanish daily El Mundo presented in a December 8 report about the extrajudicial execution of Pérez and his six companions.
The journalistic work reveals that the former Venezuelan Police officer had 40 bullet wounds in his body. The lawmakers hope the proof delivered will be included in the open file against Nicolás Maduro.
“Not only did we bring all those pictures and videos of Óscar Pérez, we also emphasized the systematic violations many youth experience in the prisons,” said Azuaje to the national media.
“We’re aware and understand that these images cause pain to the family. But we’re also aware that the last minutes of these brave [men] were broadcast live with one purpose: that the world learns what was happening and understands the human rights violations that were taking place,” added Casella.
On December 9, Interim President Juan Guaidó addressed the case, recalling that crimes against humanity can never be justified. “We will continue to fight for justice for our martyrs, their sacrifice will not be in vain,” he added.
The representatives said they would deliver the same documents to the United Nations. “We refuse to accept that a person such as Nicolás Maduro, who has committed such terrible human rights violations, was granted a position,” said Azuaje.