On March 26, the U.S. Department of Justice indicted Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and 14 other members of his administration over alleged links to international narco-terrorism. The Department of State announced that it will award USD 15 million to anyone who helps capture the Venezuelan Head of State. Maduro dismissed the move as part of a conspiracy against Venezuela. Further developments on the matter are expected in the coming days.

The Department of Justice is accusing Maduro of running a narco-terrorist association with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) for a period of over 20 years. “Maduro has attempted to flood the United States with cocaine to undermine the health and well-being of our nation,” the statement read. Other public officials accused of being involved in the corruption and drug trafficking network include National Constituent Assembly (ANC) president Diosdado Cabello and Minister of Industry and Commerce, Tareck El Aissami. 

As well as the State Department’s reward for Maduro’s capture, it has pledged a USD 10 million payment to anyone aiding in the arrest of Cabello and El Aissami.