Three Americans detained in Venezuelan prison face harsh treatment

American tourists recently shared their harrowing experience of being detained in a Venezuelan prison. They were initially looking forward to a fun trip but ended up as captives under a harsh government. The prisoners described a bleak reality. Guards with masks and name tags that read "Hitler" and "Demon" mistreated them. They faced physical abuse, including beatings and pepper spray. The Americans often felt they were undergoing "psychological torture" while locked in cement cells. After three months of captivity, frustration turned into rebellion among the prisoners. They began banging on cell walls and kicking doors, with hundreds joining in. One prisoner, Gregory David Werber, rallied the group by asking if they were united in their fight. The Venezuelan prisoners responded affirmatively, showing solidarity. In late January, six Americans were released after a meeting between Richard Grenell, a U.S. special envoy, and Nicolás Maduro, the Venezuelan leader. Critics claimed this meeting legitimized a government known for human rights violations. However, it ultimately secured the Americans' release. Three of the former prisoners spoke to The New York Times, revealing details of their kidnappings at legal border crossings. They emphasized how Maduro's government is using international prisoners to gain leverage in negotiations.