Wuilly Arteaga was arrested at a 48-hour strike against the Venezuelan president.
A violinist who has become a fixture in street demonstrations against Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has been released from police custody after being detained for three weeks. Wuilly Arteaga, 23, was arrested on charges of instigating violence and carrying an incendiary device during an anti-government protest. He has been released following a request from the Public Ministry of Venezuela amid mounting pressure levelled by human rights groups and petitions calling for his freedom. A number of artists have been vocal about Arteaga’s incarceration, including soprano Joyce DiDonato, who shared a petition to have him released via twitter.
Concrete action you can take right now, to help a musician in deep need: PLEASE SIGN. https://t.co/Rdy5vhvhQB
— Joyce DiDonato (@JoyceDiDonato) August 15, 2017
Alfredo Romero, director of Foro Penal, a pro bono legal assistance NGO, confirmed the release on social media and has backed up claims that the violinist was beaten in custody. As part of his bail conditions, Arteaga must report to court officials every eight days and is prohibited from attending any more protests, Romero told reporters. Foro Penal has...
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