One person dead after explosion at Fedecamaras

Caracas, February 24, 2008 - Neighbors in the surrounding area of La Campiña reported that a strong explosion occurred in the proximity of the Fedecamaras business chamber, at approximately 12.10 am this Sunday.

The news channel Globovision reported that the explosion occurred on the north façade of Fedecamaras, and that one person had died in that place. The chief of investigations of the Chacao Police, José Gregorio González, indicated to AFP that it is possible that the person, who died, was the same person who placed the explosive. The preliminary identification of this person is Héctor Eduardo Serrano.

Images from the channel showed damage to the façade and destroyed windows, they also showed the moment in which the remains of the body were removed to the Scientific and Criminal Investigations Unit (CICPC) van.

Lope Mendoza, second vice president of Fedecamaras speaking to Globovision indicated that the detonation caused, "great destruction in the north facade of the building. We understand that the person who died was the person who activated the explosive." He commented that he would convoke an extraordinary meeting of the directors this Sunday afternoon.

Supposed guerrilla group

According to Globovision, pamphlets were found in the area signed by "Frente Guerrillero Venceremos" with messages against the leadership of the business group. Globovision also said that the deceased person carried a honorary inspector's card, from the Metropolitan Police.

This same guerrilla organization is attributed with placing an explosive in front of the administrative offices of the National Assembly, on the corner of Pajaritos, which occurred in the early hours of February 18. They have also been affirmed responsible for the explosive placed at the Vatican Embassy on February 15, which caused minor damage. The detonation of a statue of George Washington, in El Paraíso on February 13 is also attributed to them.

The organization affirms in their pamphlets that they are for "the rescue of the Bolivarian process", the government of President Hugo Chavez has energetically repudiated the detonations, while the opposition has used the acts to attack the figure of President Chavez.

Translated by Kiraz Janicke