Story perspectives

U.S. Foiled Plot to Capture Maduro's Pilot Amid Tensions

11/1/2025

27 6

Summary

Story summary

A federal officer attempted to persuade General Bitner Villegas, chief pilot for Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, to divert a flight for Maduro's apprehension.
Agent Edwin Lopez offered Villegas a large sum of money, but Villegas rejected the offer, citing Venezuelan pride.
The plot originated from a tip at the U.S. Embassy in the Dominican Republic in April 2024.
Following the failed operation, the U.S. seized two of Maduro's planes, which Maduro condemned as "brazen theft."

1 of 1

Story summary

A federal officer attempted to persuade General Bitner Villegas, chief pilot for Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, to divert a flight for Maduro's apprehension.
Agent Edwin Lopez offered Villegas a large sum of money, but Villegas rejected the offer, citing Venezuelan pride.
The plot originated from a tip at the U.S. Embassy in the Dominican Republic in April 2024.
Following the failed operation, the U.S. seized two of Maduro's planes, which Maduro condemned as "brazen theft."