Drugs

Traditionally, most drugs from Colombia destined for Europe or the US pass through Venezuela. Checks at customs and at the police checkpoints throughout the country (alcabala) are therefore very strict. Venezuelan law makes no distinction between different substances, and the punishment for possession of marijuana is the same as that for cocaine or any other drug.

Anyone caught with drugs is usually put straight into jail. The Police can hold people in jail for up to 8 days before trial.

The sentence for the possession of 1 kg of cocaine or heroine is 10-20 years imprisonment ... no fun under the conditions of Venezuelan prisons.