The Autonomous Region of Madeira is sending a contingent of 18 specialist emergency responders to Venezuela as part of a Joint Operational Force assisting rescue efforts following the devastating earthquakes that struck the South American country last week.

The Madeiran team, which will work alongside operatives from the Azores, has been deployed to assist with the search, location and rescue of victims after two powerful earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 on the Richter scale caused widespread devastation across northern Venezuela.

The mission, coordinated under the principles of international solidarity, cooperation and humanitarian assistance, aims to strengthen emergency response capabilities in one of the country’s most complex disaster scenarios.

Madeira’s delegation consists of six operatives from the Regional Civil Protection Service, 11 firefighters from the Region’s fire brigades and a doctor from the Rapid Intervention Medical Team (EMIR).

Richard Marques, President of the Regional Civil Protection Service, said the team’s multidisciplinary expertise would enable it to provide a comprehensive emergency response.

“The multidisciplinary composition of our team allows us to ensure complementary capabilities in search and rescue, medical support, aerial reconnaissance, telecommunications, command and operational coordination,” he said.

Regional Secretary for Health and Civil Protection, Micaela Freitas, described the deployment as a demonstration of the Region’s commitment to humanitarian assistance.

“The presence of this Joint Operational Force represents much more than the coordination of efforts in emergencies. It symbolises the spirit of solidarity that unites men and women in the service of life,” she said.

“From rescue operations to humanitarian support, every action reflects our commitment to the well-being of the Venezuelan people. Solidarity is the foundation of this mission, strengthening cooperation between institutions and local communities. Through shared effort, empathy and dedication, this team is prepared to protect, serve and restore hope. Together we are stronger in the face of adversity.”

The Joint Operational Force will be fully self-sufficient for the estimated 12-day mission, carrying its own accommodation, food, drinking water, communications equipment, medical supplies and specialist rescue equipment, including materials for structural shoring operations.

All personnel have met the health and vaccination requirements for deployment and have been briefed in accordance with guidance issued by the relevant health authorities.

The deployment comes as Venezuela continues to deal with the aftermath of one of the deadliest natural disasters in its recent history.

According to Jorge Rodríguez, President of Venezuela’s National Assembly, the death toll has risen to 1,430 people, while a further 3,328 have been injured. Authorities have already assisted more than 73,700 families, particularly in the coastal state of La Guaira, north of Caracas, which suffered some of the worst destruction.

Among the confirmed fatalities are at least 41 Portuguese nationals or people of Portuguese descent, while a further 87 remain missing or have yet to be contacted.

The earthquakes struck approximately 200 kilometres from Caracas, less than a minute apart and were followed by more than 20 aftershocks, according to the United States Geological Survey. The United Nations estimates that more than 50,000 people remain unaccounted for.

Dozens of buildings collapsed or sustained severe structural damage in Caracas and La Guaira, prompting a major international rescue effort.

More than 30,000 Venezuelan military personnel, police officers, firefighters, doctors, paramedics and psychologists have been mobilised across the affected areas. Thousands of volunteers are also assisting with rescue operations, distributing food and collecting donations for displaced families.

International assistance has continued to arrive, with more than 1,600 rescuers from several countries now working in Venezuela. Portugal has deployed a national search and rescue team of 64 specialists, while 16 doctors from Curaçao have also joined the humanitarian response. Several other European Union member states have also sent specialist rescue teams to support local authorities.

Officials have urged the public to avoid travelling to La Guaira to allow emergency vehicles and heavy machinery unrestricted access as rescue operations continue.

Madeira’s contribution forms part of Portugal’s wider commitment to supporting the people of Venezuela during the ongoing humanitarian emergency.

Samantha Gannon

info at madeira-weekly.com

Image: DN/EPA

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