US Court Charges Venezuela’s Maduro with Narco-Terrorism, Cocaine Smuggling | World News

A US Court has indicted Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro on charges of narco-terrorism conspiracy, cocaine importation conspiracy, firearms offenses and related crimes.

The indictment, made public by US Attorney Pam Bondi, was submitted to the US District Court for the Southern District of New York. Prosecutors allege that Maduro used his power in Venezuela to transport massive amounts of cocaine to the United States over more than two decades.

Court documents outline alleged activities, including using Venezuelan diplomatic passports to protect smugglers, shipping tons of cocaine by air and sea, and providing armed security for drug operations. The indictment also cites kidnappings, bribery and acts of violence to maintain control over human trafficking routes.

Maduro and other defendants are also accused of possessing machine guns and other destructive devices in connection with the drug conspiracy. Authorities claim these weapons were used to strengthen authority and protect shipments.

If convicted, the charges could result in life imprisonment. Additionally, the U.S. government is seeking to seize assets linked to the alleged crimes, including profits from drug trafficking and property used to facilitate these operations.

Maduro is scheduled to appear before a federal judge in Manhattan, where prosecutors are expected to request that he remain in custody until his trial.

(This is a developing story.)