Gunfire and explosions shook the night for residents of Caracas this Monday, following reports of shootings in the vicinity of the Miraflores Palace, the seat of the Venezuelan executive power.
Witnesses report hearing sustained gunfire and movements of armed men in nearby streets, in an atmosphere marked by uncertainty and fear.
The events occurred just hours after Delcy Rodríguez proclaimed herself as "acting president," following the capture of Nicolás Maduro by the United States government, an episode that has heightened political tension in the country to its peak.
According to CNN, gunfire was clearly heard in the vicinity of the presidential palace.
Media outlets such as Noticias RCN reported that the gunfire apparently began after small drones were spotted flying over the area, which triggered an armed response from security forces.
Numerous videos recorded by residents circulated on social media, where sounds of detonations can be heard, which some attribute to anti-aircraft artillery, as well as gunfire from long weapons. In other footage, armed personnel can be seen moving quickly through nearby streets, while neighbors remain sheltered in their homes.
So far, Venezuelan authorities have not provided a detailed official account of what happened, nor has it been confirmed whether there are any injured or detained individuals. The origin and the true purpose of the alleged drones have also not been clarified.
Information in development.
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