U.S.: Venezuela threats freed general on drug charges [View all]

[Zorro]

U.S. officials said Monday they believe Venezuela used "threats" against Aruba to achieve the release of a powerful former general who is wanted by the United States on drug-trafficking charges.

"We are disturbed by credible reports that have come to us indicating the Venezuelan government threatened the governments of Aruba, the Netherlands, and others" to obtain the release of former military intelligence chief Hugo Carvajal, U.S. State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki said in a statement.

"This is not the way law enforcement matters should be handled."

The State Department would not immediately elaborate on the nature of the threats. Calls and e-mails seeking comment from officials in Venezuela and Aruba went unanswered.

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