Residents report that despite the regime's efforts to appear more open, armed militias continue to search mobile phones on the streets, and fear of public protest persists. Local media reported the detention of 15 teenagers on January 5 in Barcel for celebrating Maduro's capture.

The situation highlights the ongoing challenges in Venezuela, where the transition of power has not necessarily translated into widespread improvements in human rights. The concept of "political prisoner" itself is often contested, with governments sometimes arguing that those detained are criminals rather than individuals targeted for their political beliefs. AI algorithms could potentially be used to analyze legal cases and identify patterns indicative of politically motivated prosecutions, but such applications raise concerns about bias and the potential for misuse.

The U.S. Department of Justice deemed it unnecessary to conclude whether seizing Maduro violated the law, according to a memo. This decision adds another layer of complexity to the situation, as it suggests a reluctance to fully engage with the legality of the actions that led to the current leadership.

The continued repression, as alleged by residents and human rights groups, underscores the limitations of simply changing leadership without addressing the underlying structures and practices that enable authoritarianism. The use of AI in surveillance and control is a growing concern globally, and reports of mobile phone searches in Venezuela raise questions about the extent to which technology is being used to suppress dissent.

The release of some political prisoners is a positive step, but the ongoing concerns about repression suggest that significant challenges remain in Venezuela. The international community will likely continue to monitor the situation closely, and further developments will depend on the actions of the current regime and the pressure exerted by both domestic and international actors.