A series of loud explosions rocked the centre of Venezuela's capital, Caracas, on the morning of Saturday, 3 January 2026, causing significant alarm but resulting in no reported casualties. The incident, which occurred in the El Calvario area near the presidential palace, has been labelled a "terrorist" attack by the government of President Nicolas Maduro.
Government Response and Initial Details
Venezuela's Interior and Justice Minister, Remigio Ceballos, swiftly addressed the nation, confirming the detonations. He stated that the Bolivarian National Guard was actively investigating the scene. According to official reports, the explosions were caused by low-impact devices and were described as an attempt to "destabilise" the country. President Maduro, in a statement, directly accused what he termed "terrorist factions" of being behind the blasts, framing the event as an assault on the state.
Eyewitness Accounts and Location Significance
The blasts were heard across a wide swathe of the city centre, sending residents into a state of panic. The location is highly symbolic, situated close to key government buildings including the Miraflores presidential palace and other ministries. This proximity to the heart of political power has intensified the gravity of the incident. Authorities have cordoned off the affected zone as forensic teams and bomb disposal experts work to gather evidence and ensure no further threats remain.
Political Context and Broader Implications
This event occurs against a backdrop of prolonged political and economic crisis in Venezuela. The government of Nicolas Maduro frequently alleges plots and attacks from opposition groups and foreign adversaries. This latest incident is likely to be used to reinforce that narrative, potentially justifying further security crackdowns. The immediate priority for officials is the ongoing investigation, with promises of more information to come. The lack of injuries has been a fortunate outcome in an event that could have had far more severe consequences for the tense political climate in Caracas.
The explosions in Caracas underscore the fragile security situation in Venezuela. As the government pursues its investigation, the international community will be watching closely for developments and for any evidence that clarifies the perpetrators and their motives behind this alarming disturbance in the capital.
