Eleven Arrested Following Gas Complex Explosion and Fire in Venezuela
Authorities in Venezuela have arrested eleven individuals as part of an ongoing investigation into last week’s explosion and fire at a major gas facility, Vice-President and Oil Minister Delcy Rodriguez announced on Monday.
The Muscar gas complex, located in the eastern Monagas region and operated by state oil company PDVSA, was temporarily shut down after a pipeline explosion triggered a fire. The incident injured at least five workers and led to stricter power rationing in some areas.
According to Rodriguez, several foreign nationals linked to the case have fled the country. She also reported that PDVSA has incurred damages estimated at $157 million, though it was unclear if this figure pertains solely to the Muscar explosion or includes other incidents.
The Muscar complex plays a critical role in distributing gas for reinjection into oilfields and supplying domestic needs.
Rodriguez, speaking alongside PDVSA chief Hector Obregon and the company’s security head, noted that at least three other attacks on PDVSA facilities had been carried out or attempted this month.
The Venezuelan government has consistently attributed incidents at oil and power facilities to acts of sabotage and terrorism. This includes an August blackout that affected the entire country.
Photo credit: La Noticia de Hoy. All rights reserved.