NASSAU, Bahamas, CMC – The Bahamas government says it has raised concerns through diplomatic channels regarding the safety and security of a Bahamian national who is currently being “unlawfully detained” in Venezuela.
In addition, Nassau is advising nationals not to travel to the South American country following last Saturday’s United States military invasion and the seizure of the country’s President, Nicolas Maduro, and his wife.
Maduro and his wife appeared in court on Monday, and the matter has been adjourned to March 17 this year. The 25-page indictment accuses Maduro and others of working with drug cartels to facilitate the shipment of thousands of tons of cocaine into the U.S. They could face life in prison if convicted.
“We have expressed our concern through diplomatic channels regarding the safety and security of a Bahamian national who is currently unlawfully detained in prison in Venezuela. If you or someone you know is currently in Venezuela and requires consular assistance, please email consularcrisis@bahamas.gov.bs,” the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement, adding it has communicated its concerns regarding the detained Bahamian’s welfare and continues to monitor the situation.
It did not name the individual, but local media have identified the person as Oran Munroe, a Bahamian pilot who has been in Venezuelan custody since 2021.
Munroe was first reported missing in July 2021 after departing The Bahamas aboard a private aircraft. The Royal Bahamas Police Force issued a missing person bulletin, stating Munroe was last seen on July 24, 2021. Police later confirmed that the plane, which had been reported stolen, crashed in Venezuela after leaving Abaco.
Authorities in Venezuela subsequently informed Bahamian officials that Munroe and a Colombian national were in custody after seeking medical treatment for injuries sustained in the crash.
Police said the two men were being questioned in connection with an alleged drug trafficking investigation. However, Bahamian authorities said at the time they could not confirm whether drugs were found on the aircraft.
In its statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it supports the Caribbean Community’s (CARICOM) statement, which called for “peaceful dialogue through diplomatic channels” to ensure Venezuela’s stability.
“Of particular importance to The Bahamas is that all parties involved act in accordance with international law,” the ministry said, adding that “owing to the current security situation, the government of The Bahamas advises Bahamians not travel to Venezuela.
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