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It is seen that Javier Marcano Tabata, who was then head of the presidential security office, is stepping down after U.S. military operations led to the capture of President Maduro and his spouse
It is seen that Javier Marcano Tabata, who was then head of the presidential security office, is stepping down after U.S. military operations led to the capture of President Maduro and his spouse

The name Javier Marcano Tabata has drawn unusual attention in recent months, following reports in international and regional media that he may have been detained or sidelined by Venezuelan authorities. Once regarded as a trusted figure within the country’s security apparatus, Marcano Tabata is now associated with allegations of disloyalty that reflect the deep tensions inside Venezuela’s power structure.

This article reviews the verified facts, separates confirmed reporting from speculation, and outlines Marcano Tabata’s background and role within the Venezuelan state.

Who Is Javier Marcano Tabata?

Javier Marcano Tabata is a senior Venezuelan military officer who rose through the ranks during the consolidation of power under President Nicolás Maduro. He is best known for having held key positions in elite security and intelligence units responsible for protecting the presidency and monitoring internal threats within the armed forces.

According to multiple sources, Marcano Tabata served as head of the Guardia de Honor Presidencial, the elite unit tasked with safeguarding the president and the presidential palace. He has also been linked to leadership roles within the DGCIM, Venezuela’s powerful military counterintelligence directorate.

These roles placed him at the heart of the country’s most sensitive security decisions.

Read more Full Cover: Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro Captured by U.S. Forces, Faces Trial in the U.S

Reports of Detention and Alleged Betrayal

In mid-2024, reports began circulating that Marcano Tabata had been detained or removed from his post. Spanish daily El País reported, citing security sources, that he was among the first high-ranking figures to be accused internally of betrayal. The report suggested that he had been apprehended at the National Assembly building, although no official court documents or formal indictment were made public.

Other regional outlets, including Infobae, focused on changes in Venezuela’s security leadership, confirming that Marcano Tabata was replaced in his role but stopping short of definitively confirming a legal arrest.

To date, the Venezuelan government has not released a detailed public statement outlining charges, evidence, or judicial proceedings against him.

Unverified Allegations and Claims

Several serious claims circulating online allege that Marcano Tabata ordered Venezuelan air defenses not to engage a helicopter carrying foreign special forces, and that Cuban personnel were later killed due to decisions attributed to him.

It is important to note that no major international news organization, independent Venezuelan outlet, or official investigation has confirmed these allegations. There are no publicly available documents, recorded orders, or verified testimonies linking Marcano Tabata directly to such actions.

Human rights reporting by bodies such as the OHCHR references leadership changes and accountability concerns within Venezuelan security agencies but does not substantiate the specific operational claims circulating on social media.

Career and Reputation

Before the current controversy, Marcano Tabata was widely regarded as a loyal officer aligned with the Maduro administration. His rise through elite units suggested strong political trust and internal influence.

His apparent fall from favor highlights ongoing instability within Venezuela’s military and intelligence services, where loyalty is closely scrutinized and leadership shifts can occur abruptly, often without public explanation.

What Is Confirmed and What Is Not

Confirmed:

  • Marcano Tabata held senior positions in presidential security and military intelligence.

  • He was removed or replaced from those roles.

  • Reputable outlets have reported accusations of betrayal based on security sources.

Not confirmed:

  • Formal charges or a public arrest warrant.

  • Direct orders involving air defense stand-downs.

  • Responsibility for alleged deaths of foreign personnel.

Conclusion

Javier Marcano Tabata’s case underscores the opaque nature of power struggles within Venezuela’s security apparatus. While credible reporting supports that he lost his position and faces internal accusations, the most dramatic claims surrounding his alleged actions remain unverified.

Until Venezuelan authorities release official documentation or independent investigations produce evidence, Marcano Tabata’s story remains one where confirmed facts and speculation sharply diverge.

FAQs

Who is Javier Marcano Tabata?

He is a Venezuelan general formerly linked to presidential security and military intelligence leadership.

Has Javier Marcano Tabata been officially arrested?

There is no publicly released legal document confirming a formal arrest, despite media reports citing security sources.

What positions did he hold?

He led the Guardia de Honor Presidencial and was associated with senior roles in military intelligence.

Are allegations against him proven?

No. Serious operational allegations remain unverified by reputable media or official investigations.