Venezuelans in Fort Myers celebrate capture of Nicolas Maduro

FORT MYERS, Fla. —

Venezuelans in Fort Myers are expressing mixed emotions after learning that Venezuela's authoritarian leader, Nicolas Maduro, was captured through efforts linked to President Donald Trump.

Juan Pena, who moved from Venezuela to Fort Myers eight years ago, shared his feelings about the news.

"The emotion is truly immense. Our hearts are overflowing with joy. We've cried, we've laughed, because these are mixed emotions," said Pena. He described the impact on Venezuelans living abroad. "Many families have been torn apart, and many people — nearly 9 million Venezuelans — are living abroad, trying to survive, trying to avoid being killed or imprisoned by the regime. And well, today we see that freedom has arrived, and we see that the oppressor, the tyrant, will now be brought to justice," he said.

Cape Coral resident Lleana Avendano expressed her gratitude, having waited and prayed for this day for more than 20 years.

"We say thank you, Lord. And thank you, President Trump, for everything you do for us. He knows good. He knows how much we fight. We are a good people. We are professionals. We are people that come this country to get great, this country more than they are. And now I say thank you. I can't express my emotion," she said.

Erick Tovar, another Fort Myers resident, represents a younger generation of Venezuelans who left the country at a much younger age.

"This is a historic time for Venezuelan history and perhaps even American history. You know, it's only the Western community has been so involved lately, for the past couple years. And in Florida alone, you know, this is definitely going to go on the records," he said.

Tovar emphasized that today marks both an end and the beginning of a new era for Venezuela.

"It's been 20 years, at least 20 years that this regime has been taking advantage of people, separating families. And to hear this news. You know, people don't know how to express it. So let me tell you, we're so happy. This is a day of rejoice, is a day of blessing," he said.

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