Venezuelan police have detained an individual believed to be involved in the killing of a popular TikTok influencer during a livestream. The victim, Jesus Sarmiento, who had over 77,000 followers, was shot dead while broadcasting live after publicly criticizing members of the Tren de Aragua gang and allegedly corrupt police officers.
The Attorney General, Tarek William Saab, announced on Instagram that Pierina Uribarri, identified as the partner of alleged gunman Adrian Romero, has been arrested. Prosecutors charged Uribarri with intentional homicide, criminal association, and terrorism.
Warrants were previously issued for Romero and two other suspects, Wilbert Gonzalez and Gerald Nieto. During Sarmiento’s final broadcast, sounds of banging on a door and a woman’s screams for help are audible. Sarmiento can be heard saying, “They shot me, they shot me,” before blood appears on the floor. The video cuts out as two armed men are visible.
Sarmiento had gained notoriety for speaking out against Hector Rusthenford Guerrero, known as “Nino Guerrero,” the leader of the Tren de Aragua gang, who is among Venezuela’s most wanted criminals. His outspoken criticism and recent livestreams made him a target, authorities say.
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