The eight Venezuelan soldiers captured on April 23 by Colombian irregular forces in the south west of Apure State, have been released.
The military personnel, 4 Navy and 4 Army, who were released are:
- 1) Lt. Colonel Jean Carlos Beomontt
- 2) First Lt. Jhonny Yaguare
- 3) Lt. by Fragata Alvaro Flores Berroterán
- 4) Sergeant Major 3rd José Antonio Ramos Dávila
- 5) Sergeant of 2nd Stack Aular Lara
- 6) Lieutenant of the Frigate José Emilio Torres Pérez
- 7) Lieutenant of the Frigate Luis Cova
- 8) Sergeant Major Paul Hernández
Official statement:
The Bolivarian National Armed Forces informs with unfathomable approval that today, May 31 of the current year, the eight (08) military professionals kidnapped by Colombian irregular armed groups since the beginning of the same year, were rescued through operation “Centennial Eagle”. As had recently been communicated, we had been carrying out enormous efforts in order to achieve the recovery of the patriotic brothers, whom we happily already have with us safely, On the other hand, we make it known to the public that we continue in the search for another two (02) troops.
We exalt the discipline, courage, loyalty and professionalism demonstrated by these returning fighters, not only for risking their lives on the battlefield fulfilling the oath to defend the nation, but also for maintaining high morale and an unwavering esprit de corps in extremely adverse circumstances; In this sense, they will be provided with specialized medical care as well as the necessary support to guarantee optimal health conditions.
We are infinitely grateful to all those who made this rescue possible, restoring tranquility to the bosom of the armed institution and especially to their families, who will soon be able to have them back in their homes. For us the life and physical integrity of our soldiers have always been above everything; Consequently, we categorically repudiate the media and long-line manipulations of public opinion opinion-makers, who have tried to politicize the violence embodied by the terrorist factions on the Colombian-Venezuelan border, and specifically a situation as regrettable as this one.
In compliance with the precise instructions given by citizen Nicolás Maduro Moros, Constitutional President of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, our Commander in Chief, we will continue to fight criminal organizations that intend to use the sacred national territory to carry out transnational crimes that affect peace, development and stability of the country.
Chávez lives … the Homeland continues!
Independence and Socialist Homeland … We will live and win!
Independence or nothing!
Always loyal … Never traitors!
