Society & Diaspora/News
Courts Acquit Activist Rocío San Miguel and Lift Measures Against Rory Branker
Anti-terrorism judicial panels declared an end to criminal responsibility for the human rights advocate and granted full release to the media editor in early October 2026.
Specialized anti-terrorism courts issued an acquittal for activist Rocío San Miguel and granted full release to media editor Rory Branker during the first days of October 2026, according to consulted sources and human rights organizations.
In San Miguel's case, who leads the non-governmental organization Control Ciudadano, the 3rd Trial Court ruled that she was free of criminal responsibility regarding charges of treason, conspiracy, and terrorism. These accusations dated back to her arrest in February 2024 at Maiquetía airport in connection with the case known as Brazalete Blanco. The activist had been held at El Helicoide until receiving conditional release with precautionary measures early in 2026, with the recent decision concluding the trial stage.
Concurrently, judicial decisions rendered during the same week granted full freedom and the termination of precautionary measures for Rory Branker. Both rulings came amid ongoing civil society demands concerning the legal status of individuals prosecuted across the country.
Rocío San Miguel directs Control Ciudadano, a Venezuelan civil organization monitoring security, defense, and human rights affairs. Following her detention in February 2024, she remained in custody for nearly two years before receiving precautionary measures in early 2026 and resuming her public engagement in the country.
