Four members of Venezuela’s National Police’s Aquatic Spaces Directorate (DPEA) were killed in an armed attack in Bolívar state on February 18, according to reports. The incident underscores the ongoing security challenges in the region and the risks faced by law enforcement personnel operating in areas with illegal activity.
The attack took place at a dock in the El Almacén sector of the Angostura del Orinoco municipality, officials confirmed. Authorities recovered the bodies of Yorman Useche, Alonzo Gutiérrez, Yoneiker Betancourt, and Antoni Guerrero.
Leobardo Figuera, the head of the DPEA commission in Monagas state, remains missing along with two other officers. Security forces are conducting both land and river searches to locate them.
According to a police report cited by local communicator Edixon Manuel, the officers had been in the area for at least five days and were ambushed as they prepared to leave. The attackers reportedly used high-caliber firearms.
Investigations suggest the attack was linked to illegal activities in the region, potentially motivating the armed assault on the police commission. Authorities are currently deploying security forces and intelligence operations to determine the full circumstances of the incident and identify those responsible.
The case highlights the presence of armed irregular groups operating in Bolívar state and their potential involvement in criminal enterprises. Security agencies are continuing to gather evidence and analyze ballistic data to build their case.
Officials suspect organized criminal groups are operating along strategic waterways in the area. The increased police presence aims to restore public order in the locality and prevent further violence.
