Venezuela detains opposition leader Guaido's uncle

ALEX WONG / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / AFP

Venezuela has admitted to detaining the uncle of opposition leader Juan Guaido and accused him of trying to smuggle "dangerous materials" into the country.

"He's detained, not forcibly disappeared, he's detained for bringing prohibited substances onto a flight," Vice President Diosdado Cabello said on Wednesday.

He also presented images of a bulletproof vest, alleged explosive material and an electronic file containing information about "operations against Venezuela" that allegedly belonged to Juan Jose Marquez.

Guaido, who returned from an international tour rallying support for his party, has accused President Nicolas Maduro of using his uncle as a means of threatening him to back down.

"I hold you responsible, usurper Nicolas Maduro, and each one of your minions in Maiquetia for what happens to Juan Jose Marquez," he said.

More from International

Coming Up on Dubai Eye

  • The Business Breakfast

    6:00am - 10:00am

    The Business Breakfast is the day’s must listen for the UAE’s business leaders, and those who aspire to be.

  • The Agenda

    10:00am - 1:00pm

    Broadcasting every weekday, Georgia Tolley goes beyond the headlines to speak to government ministers, decision makers, analysts and local experts to find out how the news will impact those of us living in the UAE.

BUSINESS BREAKFAST LATEST

On Dubai Eye

  • Flying Taxis

    It sounds like an episode of The Jetsons, but the sight of flying taxis whizzing around our cities could be much closer than you think.

  • Tough penalties for deliberate tax evasion

    The UAE has said that tougher penalties will come into force from 1st August for not keeping proper corporate tax records.