Panama city, Panama – Olmedo Javier Núñez, a Panamanian sailor, has provided a harrowing account of alleged torture and inhumane treatment endured during more than seven months of detention in Venezuela. Núñez Returned to his homeland Last Friday, after being released from prison on January 23rd, following accusations of espionage.

Unexpected Release and Lingering Uncertainty

Núñez Described his release as unexpected,stating that a constant state of uncertainty was a key component of his punishment. He explained the arbitrary nature of the detention process, where individuals could be removed without warning, leaving them unsure of their fate.

Detailed accounts of Abuse

The Sailor Reported experiencing both physical and psychological abuse during his confinement. He detailed instances of being handcuffed behind his back, stripped of clothing, and forced to sleep on concrete floors in cold conditions without bedding. These conditions, he explained, were endured primarily fueled by his determination to return home.

Núñez further reported periods of extreme isolation in a location he referred to as the “fish tank,” where he was allegedly confined for hours, unable to move or communicate. Human Rights Watch has long documented allegations of such treatment within Venezuela’s detention system,pointing to systemic abuses and lack of due process.

Threats and Intimidation

The Panamanian sailor recounted instances of verbal threats and humiliation, with his captors allegedly stating he woudl die in detention. He claimed to have been told, “You are going to die here. If you know heaven, ask God because you are in hell, here you are going to know the devil that is me.”

Incommunicado Detention and limited contact

During his ordeal,Núñez was reportedly held incommunicado,with limited contact with the outside world. He was only able to speak with a Panamanian consul on one occasion and permitted two phone calls throughout his entire imprisonment. According to reports, nine individuals of various nationalities were among those detained after their Panamanian-flagged vessel was intercepted by Venezuelan naval forces in June.

What allegations of torture has Panamanian sailor William Castillo claimed after his detention in Venezuela?

Panamanian Sailor Returns Home After Seven‑Month Detention and Alleged Torture in Venezuela

Panama City, Panama – January 27, 2026 – After a harrowing seven-month ordeal, Panamanian sailor william Castillo has returned to his home country, alleging severe torture and inhumane conditions during his detention in Venezuela.The case has sparked diplomatic tensions between Panama and Venezuela, and raised serious concerns about the treatment of foreign nationals within the Venezuelan legal system.

The Initial Detention & Charges

Castillo,a merchant marine,was initially detained in Venezuelan waters in June 2025. Venezuelan authorities accused him of espionage and involvement in illicit activities, charges vehemently denied by the Panamanian government and Castillo’s family. Details surrounding the initial arrest remain murky, with conflicting reports emerging from both sides. Panama’s Foreign Ministry immediately requested consular access, a request initially delayed, raising suspicions about the clarity of the Venezuelan inquiry.

The specific accusations leveled against Castillo reportedly involved alleged reconnaissance of Venezuelan oil infrastructure. However, evidence supporting these claims has not been publicly presented. Legal experts specializing in maritime law suggest the detention may have stemmed from a misunderstanding regarding navigational routes or a dispute over fishing rights, escalating into more serious allegations.

Allegations of Torture and Inhumane Treatment

Upon his return, Castillo detailed a disturbing account of his detention. He alleges consistent physical and psychological torture during interrogations, including beatings, sleep deprivation, and threats against his family. He described being held in overcrowded cells with limited access to food, water, and medical care.

* Physical Abuse: Castillo claims he sustained injuries including broken ribs and internal bruising.

* psychological Torture: He recounts prolonged interrogations designed to break his spirit, coupled with threats against his loved ones.

* Denial of Medical Care: Despite repeated requests,Castillo alleges he was denied adequate medical attention for his injuries.

These allegations are currently under investigation by Panamanian authorities, with plans to submit evidence to international human rights organizations. the inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) has expressed its concern and offered to assist in the investigation.

Diplomatic Fallout and Panama’s Response

The prolonged detention and allegations of torture have significantly strained relations between Panama and Venezuela. Panama’s president, Laurentino Cortizo, publicly condemned the treatment of Castillo and demanded a full investigation into the allegations.

Panama took several steps to secure Castillo’s release:

  1. Diplomatic Pressure: Continuous engagement with Venezuelan officials through diplomatic channels.
  2. International Appeals: Lobbying international organizations, including the United Nations and the Institution of American States (OAS), to intervene.
  3. Legal Representation: Providing Castillo with experienced legal counsel to navigate the Venezuelan legal system.

The release finally came about following mediation efforts led by a regional diplomatic initiative. Castillo was released on January 26th, 2026, and immediately flown back to Panama.

The Role of Consular Assistance & International Law

This case highlights the critical importance of consular assistance for citizens detained abroad. The Vienna Convention on Consular Relations guarantees the right of citizens to access consular services when arrested or detained in a foreign country. However, delays in granting consular access, as experienced in Castillo’s case, can severely hinder a detainee’s ability to receive fair treatment and legal representation.

International human rights law,including the Convention Against Torture,prohibits the use of torture under any circumstances. Venezuela is a signatory to this convention, and any substantiated allegations of torture would constitute a serious violation of international law.

Similar cases & Regional Concerns

Castillo’s case is not isolated. several other instances of foreign nationals facing lengthy detentions and allegations of mistreatment have been reported in Venezuela in recent years. This has fueled concerns about the rule of law and human rights practices within the country.

* 2022 – US Citizens: Several US citizens were detained in Venezuela on similar charges, leading to a diplomatic standoff between the two countries.

* 2023 – Colombian Nationals: Reports emerged of Colombian fishermen being detained and subjected to harsh conditions while fishing in disputed waters.

These cases underscore the need for increased international scrutiny and advocacy to protect the rights of foreign nationals in Venezuela.

Castillo’s Current Condition & Future Steps

Upon his arrival in Panama,Castillo was immediately taken to a hospital for medical evaluation and psychological support. He is reported to be in stable condition but requires ongoing care to address the physical and emotional trauma he endured.

The Panamanian government has pledged to provide Castillo and his family with all necessary support, including medical treatment, psychological counseling, and legal assistance.A thorough investigation into the allegations of torture is underway,and Panama is seeking international cooperation to ensure accountability for any wrongdoing. The case serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by seafarers and the importance of international cooperation in protecting their rights.

Senior Editor, News James is an award-winning investigative reporter known for real-time coverage of global events. His leadership ensures Archyde.com’s news desk is fast, reliable, and always committed to the truth.

You may also like

Chicago Carpenter Acquitted of Murder‑for‑Hire Faces Deportation After...

2026 World Baseball Classic: Arenado Switches From USA...

The Moral Identity Gap in Animal Rights Activism

Springfield Shooting Leaves Woman With Gunshot Leg Wound;...

Frisco Sledding Tragedy Claims Teenager’s Life in Texas...

Slovenia and Latvia Foreign Ministers Discuss Bilateral Ties...

x. A doctor and a dentist eagerly awaited

Latest weather forecast for Binh Ngo Lunar New...

Meta Blocks ICE Staffer List Links – Privacy...

Fiorentina vs Como: Preview, Prediction & Live Updates

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

@2025 - All Right Reserved.

Hosted by ByoHosting - Most Recommendeed Webhhosting. For complains, abuse, advertising contact:
[email protected]

Adblock Detected

Please support us by disabling your AdBlocker extension from your browsers for our website.
Detail Information
Detainee Name Olmedo Javier Núñez
Nationality Panamanian
Detention Location Venezuela
Duration of Detention Over Seven Months
Allegations Torture, Isolation, Threats