Hugo Carvajal, Venezuela's Former Spy Chief, Admits Guilt in US Drug Case

Hugo Carvajal, known previously for his influential role in the Venezuelan military, has formally admitted guilt to drug trafficking and narco-terrorism charges in a US court, implicating himself in a widespread drug operation involving Venezuela’s military elite.

Venezuela's former head of military intelligence, Hugo Carvajal, also dubbed "El Pollo," has pleaded guilty to charges of drug trafficking and narco-terrorism in a US courtroom. This dramatic turn of events marks the downfall of a man who once wielded considerable power within the Venezuelan military establishment. At 65 years of age, Carvajal was accused of being part of an extensive drug-smuggling conspiracy involving high-ranking military officials in Venezuela.

Carvajal’s plea comes on the heels of his remarkable arrest in Madrid, where he attempted to evade capture wearing disguises, including a fake moustache and a wig. The US Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York revealed that Carvajal was a significant player in the Cartel de los Soles, a notorious drug trafficking organization within the Venezuelan military. According to US authorities, he exploited his position to flood American cities, including New York, with cocaine while collaborating with Colombian leftist rebels from the Revolutionary Armed Forces to facilitate drug shipments.

Given that Carvajal initially denied the charges, his change to a guilty plea raises questions about a possible deal for leniency in exchange for incriminating evidence against Nicolás Maduro's government. Maduro himself has faced narco-terrorism charges from the US and strict sanctions imposed on him and his associates. Carvajal is believed to possess sensitive information regarding Maduro’s regime, which could have dire implications for the current Venezuelan leadership.

The relationship between Carvajal and Maduro deteriorated after anti-government protests erupted in Venezuela in 2017, with Carvajal openly supporting opposition leader Juan Guaidó. When the military opted to remain loyal to Maduro, Carvajal fled to Spain. Following years of evasion, authorities eventually located him in Madrid, leading to his extradition to the United States. This unfolding narrative highlights growing tensions within Venezuela's political realm, placing a spotlight on the country's drug trafficking issues.