Horrific Allegations Emerge: Venezuelan Men Detail Abuse and Sexual Assault at CECOT Detention Center

2025-07-28
Horrific Allegations Emerge: Venezuelan Men Detail Abuse and Sexual Assault at CECOT Detention Center
NBC News

Disturbing Claims of Abuse Inside CECOT: Venezuelan Nationals Report Beatings and Sexual Assault

A deeply troubling report has surfaced alleging widespread abuse and torture of Venezuelan nationals detained at the CECOT (Centro de Estancia Temporal) detention center in Caracas. Three Venezuelan men have come forward with harrowing accounts of their experiences, claiming they endured physical and psychological torment while held, with one man alleging a particularly egregious act of sexual assault. The allegations come after the Trump administration facilitated their transfer to Venezuelan custody.

The men, speaking to NBC News under the condition of anonymity for fear of reprisal, detailed a pattern of mistreatment that included severe beatings, prolonged isolation, and psychological manipulation. They claim the conditions within CECOT were deplorable, characterized by overcrowding, lack of adequate medical care, and a pervasive atmosphere of fear.

“They beat us constantly,” one of the men recounted. “It wasn’t just a slap on the wrist. It was brutal. They wanted to break us.” Another described the psychological toll of the isolation, stating, “They kept us in the dark for days, denying us contact with the outside world. It was designed to make us lose our minds.”

The most shocking allegation centers around a claim of sexual assault. One of the men alleged that he was sexually assaulted by a CECOT guard, an accusation that has sent shockwaves through human rights organizations. Details surrounding the incident remain sensitive and are currently under investigation.

The Trump Administration's Role

The timing of these allegations is particularly significant, as they follow the Trump administration’s decision to transfer these men to Venezuelan authorities. Critics have argued that the U.S. government failed to adequately assess the human rights situation in Venezuela before making this decision, potentially exposing vulnerable individuals to harm. Human rights groups have long documented concerns regarding the treatment of detainees within Venezuelan custody, citing reports of torture, arbitrary detention, and lack of due process.

Calls for Investigation and Accountability

The allegations have prompted immediate calls for a thorough and independent investigation into the conditions at CECOT and the treatment of detainees. Human rights organizations are urging both the Venezuelan and U.S. governments to take these claims seriously and to hold those responsible for any wrongdoing accountable. They emphasize the importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of all individuals in the custody of any government.

“These allegations are deeply disturbing and demand immediate attention,” said [Name of Human Rights Advocate/Organization]. “We must ensure that those who have suffered at the hands of the Venezuelan government receive justice and that steps are taken to prevent such abuses from happening again.”

The case highlights the complex challenges surrounding immigration policy and the importance of prioritizing human rights considerations when making decisions that impact the lives of vulnerable individuals. The investigation’s findings could have significant implications for future U.S.-Venezuela relations and the treatment of migrants seeking asylum.

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