UK sends search and rescue team to Venezuela as earthquake death toll nears 1,000
A British search and rescue team was sent to Venezuela following devastating earthquakes that killed nearly 1,000 people.
The 68-strong contingent, made up of personnel from fire services across the UK, left RAF Brize Norton on Friday, accompanied by six specialist search dogs and humanitarian staff.
Powerful earthquakes of magnitude 7.2 and 7.5 on Wednesday were among the strongest to hit Venezuela in more than a century, causing tremors to be felt throughout the region.
While the death toll stood at 920 dead and 3,360 injured by the end of Friday, officials warned that the numbers were expected to continue rising.
Sir Keir Starmer expressed his condolences, saying: “My thoughts are with the people of Venezuela following this week’s devastating earthquakes. The UK stands in solidarity with all those affected, especially those who have lost loved ones, homes and livelihoods.”
The specialist search and rescue operation is being provided by UK International Search and Rescue (UKISAR), which acts on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office in disaster responses.
In addition to the UKISAR team, the UK has also sent members of the UK Emergency Medical Team to prepare for another possible medical deployment, as well as providing £2 million in humanitarian funding to assist with disaster relief efforts.
Meanwhile, the Foreign Office confirmed that all British staff were safe and accounted for after the British embassy in Caracas was damaged.
The embassy, located on the 11th floor of an office tower, has been closed but alternative arrangements are now being made to support British nationals in the country.
While the number of British nationals in Venezuela is estimated to be in the hundreds, no British deaths or injuries have been reported.
