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Former Venezuelan Mayor Detained by ICE After Seeking Asylum in U.S.

KVIA•Thursday, January 29, 2026 at 1:42 AM•CNN Newsource

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Carlos García, a former mayor of Mérida, Venezuela, and political opponent of Nicolás Maduro, was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) during a routine immigration status check in Ohio. García and his family fled Venezuela in 2017 due to political persecution and sought asylum in the U.S. However, his recent detention raises fears of deportation back to Venezuela, where he could face imprisonment. His wife, Gaby Duarte, expressed concerns for their safety and the well-being of their two young children, who were not detained. García's case highlights the precarious situation for many Venezuelans seeking refuge amid ongoing political turmoil in their home country.

Key Details: • García was detained on a routine check; his family fears deportation. • They fled Venezuela in 2017 and sought asylum in the U.S. • Their children, aged 7 and 5, were not detained during the incident. • García previously faced a 15-month prison sentence in Venezuela for opposing the government.

immigration ice venezuela asylum political-persecution

People & Organizations

ICENicolás MaduroUnited NationsMéridaOhioDelcy RodríguezCúcutaCincinnatiCarlos GarcíaGaby Duarte

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