Venezuela bans X as Maduro expands crackdown

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has banned the social media platform X, accusing its owner Elon Musk of interfering in the country's disputed elections. This action follows a broader crackdown on social media amid rising protests against Maduro's regime. In a dramatic gesture, Maduro deleted WhatsApp from his phone during a live broadcast. The government has launched "Operation Knock Knock," leading to the arrest of critics when they answer their doors. Over 2,000 individuals protesting against what many believe to be a fraudulent election have been detained recently, with authorities employing arbitrary rules for arrests. This crackdown has created a climate of fear, discouraging public dissent and leading to concerns about the treatment of detained minors, with reports indicating that around 100 children have been arrested. Critics argue that Maduro's government is increasingly resembling a police state, with experts noting that the regime's heavy-handed tactics may backfire. The situation has raised alarms about human rights violations, particularly regarding the treatment of young detainees who are not being separated from adult prisoners and are unable to contact their families.

- Maduro has banned X, accusing Elon Musk of election interference.

- Over 2,000 protesters have been arrested in recent weeks.

- The crackdown has created a climate of fear, discouraging public dissent.

- Approximately 100 children have been detained amid the protests.

- Experts warn that Maduro's tactics are pushing Venezuela towards a police state.