Venezuela’s collapsed economy has meant massive inflation and food shortages
The International Cricket Council (ICC) is looking into allegations of crimes against humanity that were levelled against Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro.
Approximately 3,500 people were reported to have been killed in the country in 2018, amid food shortages and widespread corruption.
“The ICC is aware of a petition in relation to crimes against humanity in Venezuela and will investigate the matter,” a statement said.
“As a sporting organisation we fully support this call for justice.”
The ICC added that it will not release any more details while it investigates.
Hundreds of people have been arrested and charged in recent weeks in connection with looting supermarkets.
The ICC was already aware of claims that human rights groups around the world were looking into crimes against humanity during political turmoil in Venezuela, which includes human rights abuses, extrajudicial killings and armed conflicts.
Maduro has called a presidential recall referendum for his disputed government, which would require 180 days of preparation. However, critics of the Maduro regime say the government lacks the tools and legitimacy for the ballot to happen.