Paramilitary groups known as colectivos patrolled the streets of Caracas, Venezuela, on Tuesday, as the regime attempted to consolidate authority following a U.S. raid on the capital. Armed with assault rifles, these groups operated checkpoints, stopped and searched cars, and demanded access to citizens' phones, according to reports.

The actions of the colectivos are seen as a crackdown intended to stifle dissent and project an image of control after the abduction of President Nicolás Maduro during the U.S. operation on Saturday. Individuals suspected of supporting the U.S. raid were reportedly subject to arrest.

The deployment of these militias highlights the precarious situation in Venezuela following the U.S. intervention. The term "colectivo" refers to paramilitary groups that have historically supported the ruling party in Venezuela. They have been accused of using violence and intimidation to maintain social control. Their presence on the streets now, particularly after the removal of Maduro, suggests a desperate attempt by the remaining regime to assert dominance and prevent any perceived power vacuum from being exploited by opposition forces.

The current uncertainty raises concerns about the potential for further escalation and human rights abuses. The use of AI in analyzing social media posts and phone data by the colectivos, while not explicitly confirmed in this instance, is a growing trend globally. AI algorithms can be used to identify individuals expressing dissenting opinions or organizing opposition movements, potentially leading to targeted repression. This application of AI raises serious ethical questions about privacy, freedom of speech, and the potential for misuse by authoritarian regimes.

The situation remains fluid, with the future of Venezuela uncertain. The U.S. government has yet to release a comprehensive statement regarding its long-term plans for the country. The actions of the colectivos suggest that elements of the Maduro regime are attempting to maintain control, but the extent of their authority and the level of popular support they command remain unclear. The coming days will be crucial in determining the direction Venezuela takes.