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Maduro's $5.2 Billion Gold Scheme Exposed Amid Capture

1/9/2026

22 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Between 2013 and 2016, Nicolás Maduro, the Venezuelan president, moved 113 tons of gold valued at $5.2 billion from the Central Bank to Switzerland.
The gold was sent for processing and certification to facilitate sale.
Shipments ceased in 2017 after European Union sanctions.
In January 2026, Maduro was captured by United States forces.
Switzerland froze assets linked to Maduro and his associates.

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Story summary

Between 2013 and 2016, Nicolás Maduro, the Venezuelan president, moved 113 tons of gold valued at $5.2 billion from the Central Bank to Switzerland.
The gold was sent for processing and certification to facilitate sale.
Shipments ceased in 2017 after European Union sanctions.
In January 2026, Maduro was captured by United States forces.
Switzerland froze assets linked to Maduro and his associates.