Venezuela: Three dead while continuing a 48-hour strike

Three people were killed in clashes during the first day of the general strike declared by the opposition against Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, the prosecutor's office announced today.

At least 106 people have lost their lives in riots since April 1, when the opposition mobilized the demand for elections and the removal of Maduro from power.

Many roads across Venezuela were blocked today by barricades, the second day of the 48-hour strike that began on Wednesday. The aim of this strike is to put pressure on the president to cancel the controversial elections for the editorial board to be held at the weekend.

Faced with international pressure, such as the US threat of financial sanctions, Maduro states that these elections will become normal as it is the only way for power to pass into the hands of the people and bring peace to Venezuela.

According to prosecutors, a 23-year-old was killed in Merida and a 16-year-old in the poor Cartagena Petar, in clashes between security forces and young hoodies. Earlier, the death of a 30-year-old, also in Merida, was announced.