Peruvian citizen Marco Antonio Madrid Martinez, who had been unjustly detained in Venezuela since December 2024, was repatriated, along with his wife and minor daughter, in an orderly and secure manner by
Peru's Foreign Affairs Ministry.
This achievement was made possible through the joint efforts of the Ministry, via the General Directorate for Peruvian Communities Abroad and Consular Affairs.
This work was carried out in close coordination with Peru's Interests Section in Venezuela—managed by the Brazilian Embassy in Caracas—the Consulate General of Peru in Bogota, and Colombian authorities.
These efforts ensured the orderly and secure transfer of Madrid Martinez and his family to Peruvian territory, according to the government agency.
"Upon arriving in Lima by air, the Peruvian national and his family were welcomed by Foreign Affairs Ministry officials, who conveyed greetings from Minister Hugo de Zela and extended a welcome on behalf of the Government of Peru," the Executive Branch institution indicated.
Madrid thanked authorities for the ongoing oversight of his case and the assistance provided for his and his family's return.
After learning of the detention, the Foreign Affairs Ministry undertook ongoing diplomatic efforts and coordination to secure his release at both the bilateral level, with support from friendly countries.
Likewise, it pursued action in the multilateral sphere, including engagement with the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights and various non-governmental organizations.
"Peru once again urges Venezuela to order the immediate release of all Peruvian citizens who remain unjustly detained at the 'Rodeo 1' and 'La Crisalida' detention centers, and expresses its hope for their swift return to the country," the government agency stated.
It also expressed special concern over the situation of Peruvian citizen Ricardo Melendez, who has been detained since October 2024 and is in a vulnerable condition due to his delicate state of health.
"The Foreign Affairs Ministry reaffirms its firm commitment to protecting and assisting all Peruvian citizens abroad, continuously safeguarding their integrity and the full respect of their fundamental rights," it concluded.
(END) NDP/FHG/JCC/MVB
Published: 1/21/2026