Venezuelan Bishop Released After Five Years of Imprisonment
Based on 2 sources Updated 2 weeks ago
Bishop Jylman Red Jurado Farfán, a leader within the independent Latin American Anglican Church, was released from Venezuela’s Rodeo III Prison on August 14. He was among a group of prisoners freed by the government, though reports on the total number of releases vary; Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW) reported 81 individuals were released, while Venezuelan authorities cited 131.
Arrested in July 2021, the bishop faced charges of terrorism, criminal association, and conspiracy. Human rights organizations, including CSW and Foro Penal, noted significant legal irregularities, including a 10-month period where his case file was sealed and a trial that was suspended after two years without conclusive evidence.
Following his release, Bishop Jurado Farfán alleged that he was subjected to torture during his five-year detention, specifically citing the removal of his toenails and the use of electricity on his body. He also suffered from severe health issues, including pneumonia and gastrointestinal bleeding, while in custody. In a statement, the bishop expressed gratitude for his liberation, attributing his endurance to his faith, while advocacy groups have called for an end to the harassment of religious leaders in the country.