Federation of Trade and Industry Chambers head José Luis Betancourt rebutted military occupation and closing of productive facilities in the states of Barinas, Yaracuy, Guárico and Monagas.

Fedecámaras showed solidarity with Empresas Polar following seizure of silos in central-western Barinas state, including military occupation and closing of facilities, in express violation of the national constitution."

According to Betancourt, "such actions create a climate that violates overtly people's fundamental rights (¿) as well as the right of property, economic freedoms, and due process of private liberty."

"Those who protect such action disregard all of us, who want to live in peace and produce for the country's sake," said the organization in a press release.

Betancourt voiced businesspersons' concern "about prevailing violence, insecurity and impunity, as well as the terrorist practice of kidnapping that endangers the Venezuelan people."

"We ask the national government for urgent implementation of a citizen's security policy."