In response to the recent crackdown on the opposition in Venezuela following the disputed presidential election, the International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutors have announced that they are actively monitoring the unfolding events in the country. Security forces loyal to President Nicolás Maduro have arrested over 2,000 individuals for either protesting against the president or questioning his claims of victory in the July 28 election, despite strong evidence suggesting otherwise.

In a written statement to reporters, the office of ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan confirmed their active involvement in the situation, stating that they have received multiple reports of violence and other allegations following the presidential election. The ICC prosecutors have also engaged with the Venezuelan government at the highest level, emphasizing the importance of upholding the rule of law and ensuring the protection of all individuals from potential human rights violations that may constitute Rome Statute crimes.

President Maduro has urged Venezuelans to denounce doubters of the election through a government-run app designed to report power outages. Additionally, he disclosed plans to repurpose two prisons, known for being dominated by gangs, to accommodate the anticipated surge in incarceration of his opponents. Maduro's televised announcement further reiterated that there would be no mercy shown towards those opposing his regime.

It is important to note that the ICC has already been conducting an ongoing investigation into the violence that ensued after Venezuela's 2017 election. However, thus far, no arrest warrants have been sought. ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan, who initiated the investigation in late 2021 after a lengthy preliminary probe, stated that the investigations into the aforementioned incidences are continuing with focus. The prosecutor's office encourages individuals or organizations with any information that may be relevant to this ongoing investigation to make use of their online portal for submitting potential evidence.

The situation in Venezuela remains tense, with the opposition facing a severe crackdown by security forces. As the ICC closely monitors the events, the focus on upholding the rule of law and protecting individuals from potential human rights violations becomes increasingly significant. The international community continues to observe and await further developments in this ongoing investigation.