Thousands protest Colombian paramilitary presence in Venezuela

0 Comments | AFP, May, 2004

CARACAS (AFP) — Thousands of Venezuelans draped in national colors marched through the streets of Caracas to protest an alleged coup plot by suspected Colombian right-wing paramilitaries against left-wing President Hugo Chavez.

Vice President Jose Vicente Rangel claimed the United States and Colombians were involved in the conspiracy.

"This march is in response to the conspiracy mounted by the Colombian oligarchy and the North American empire, but we will defeat them," Rangel said.

Last week, 88 people described as paramilitaries were arrested in a farm outside Caracas. Rangel said 120 now have been arrested.

On Saturday, Chavez, who called for Sunday's march, claimed the plotters were going to take over a military base in Caracas to spark a coup,...