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Federal prosecutors in Miami have initiated a new criminal investigation into former Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, as concerns within the U.S. Justice Department and White House grow over the effectiveness of the existing charges against him, a CBS News report has revealed.
The new investigation, launched approximately in March, involves the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Homeland Security Investigations, and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Criminal Investigation division. This move highlights a shift in strategy in the U.S. government’s efforts to hold Maduro accountable for alleged financial crimes linked to his tenure.
According to sources within the Justice Department, concerns exist over the 2021 indictment levelled against Maduro in New York, citing that it lacks money-laundering charges. The indictment, which was issued in connection with a conspiracy to import tonnes of cocaine into the U.S., may face challenges in obtaining convictions, sparking calls for a revised approach.
The expanded investigation in Miami is part of an ongoing effort by the U.S. government to tackle alleged financial improprieties committed by Maduro and other Venezuelan officials. The probe is expected to focus on money-laundering, among other financial crimes, and is being conducted in partnership with U.S. law enforcement agencies.
While details of the new investigation remain scarce, observers anticipate that it could have significant implications for Maduro’s future prospects, potentially exposing him to further charges. Maduro’s administration has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing and dismissed the allegations against him.
The U.S. government’s pursuit of Maduro stems from Washington’s long-standing criticism of his administration’s handling of Venezuelan affairs. In recent years, the Biden administration has strengthened U.S. economic sanctions on Venezuela, targeting key sectors of the Venezuelan economy in its efforts to pressure Maduro to relinquish power.
Critics argue that Maduro’s actions have had disastrous consequences for Venezuela, exacerbating widespread poverty, economic instability, and human rights abuses. U.S. officials have also pointed to alleged Venezuelan ties to international organised crime, as well as corruption and embezzlement of public funds.
As the investigation unfolds, it is unclear what further evidence or charges may be revealed. The expanded probe into Maduro’s financial activities serves as a reminder of the U.S. government’s ongoing commitment to addressing alleged wrongdoing by former Venezuelan leaders.