Following the renewed detention of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, the United States’ long-standing indictments against him and other high-ranking Venezuelan officials have resurfaced. These indictments, dating back to 2020, allege their involvement in what Washington terms “narco-terrorism,” charges vehemently denied by those accused and dismissed by Caracas as politically motivated.
The core of these cases is centered in the Southern District Court of New York (Manhattan), with additional filings in Washington, Miami, the Eastern District of New York, Texas, and Arizona.
The “Cartel of the Suns” Allegations
According to the indictment issued by the federal court in Manhattan, the US accuses Maduro and his associates of leading the so-called “Cartel of the Suns” (Cártel de Los Soles). This term describes an alleged network of National Guard and military officers involved in corruption and drug trafficking. The name is derived from the sun insignia worn on generals’ uniforms.
Washington views the “Cartel of the Suns” as an informal organization extending into high levels of government, serving as a hub for drug smuggling and supporting armed groups. Venezuela denies its existence, branding it a political fabrication aimed at toppling the government.
Key figures named in the indictment and the accusations against them, as presented by the US, include:
- Nicolas Maduro Moros: Accused of leading the network and using cocaine as a weapon against American society.
- Hugo Armando Carvajal Barrios (“El Pollo”): The former Director of Military Intelligence, accused of providing intelligence and logistical cover for cocaine shipments. He was arrested in Spain and extradited to the United States. He pleaded guilty to drug and terrorism charges.
- Clíver Antonio Alcalá Cordones: A former general in the armed forces, accused of participating in the cartel’s management and supplying weapons to the Colombian FARC group. He surrendered to US authorities and was transported to the United States to face the charges.
Ministers and Judges Implicated in Corruption and Money Laundering
The US accusations extend to prominent officials in the judiciary, defense, and economy, involving bribery and money laundering cases.