CARACAS, Venezuela, January 10 — As ousted President Nicolás Maduro faces a U.S. court, American authorities are also seeking his son, Nicolás Ernesto Maduro Guerra, on serious criminal charges. Known as “Nicolasito” or “The Prince,” the younger Maduro is a fugitive accused of playing a key role in a state-linked drug trafficking network.
Who is ‘Nicolasito’ Maduro Guerra?
He is the 35-year-old only son of Nicolás Maduro, born from a previous relationship. He entered politics after his father became president in 2013, holding roles in the presidency and film school despite no prior experience. He was elected to the National Constituent Assembly in 2017 and currently holds a seat in Venezuela’s National Assembly. His public profile rose after his father’s capture on January 3, when he delivered a defiant speech to the assembly, condemning the U.S. and urging resistance.
What are the US charges against him?
The U.S. Department of Justice indicted him in December on multiple counts, alongside his father and others. The charges include:
- Conspiracy to import cocaine into the United States.
- Possession of firearms and destructive devices.
- Conspiracy to possess such weapons.
Prosecutors allege he helped orchestrate shipments of cocaine to the U.S., including using state-owned aircraft, and used weapons to protect the trafficking operation. If convicted, the charges carry potential life sentences.
Where is Maduro Guerra now?
His current whereabouts are unknown. He remains at large following the U.S. military operation that captured his father in Caracas. In an audio message shared online on January 5, he stated, “You will see us in the streets… They want us to appear weak, but we will not show weakness.” Analysts suggest his public appearances aim to position him as a symbolic figure for the remaining Chavismo movement demanding his father’s return.
Why does this matter?
The indictment ties the alleged criminal conspiracy directly to Maduro’s inner family circle, alleging the son was a willing participant. His fugitive status presents a continued challenge for U.S. authorities seeking to dismantle the network they accuse of turning Venezuela into a narco-state. Domestically, his rhetoric attempts to rally supporters of the ousted government, suggesting the political struggle will continue even with his father in U.S. custody.
The U.S. will probably step up efforts to find and extradite him next, though his movement may be limited to friendly areas.
FAQs
Q: What is Nicolás Maduro Guerra’s nickname?
A: He is commonly known as “Nicolasito” or “The Prince.”
Q: What specific crimes is he accused of?
A: The U.S. charges him with conspiracy to import cocaine, and conspiracy to possess firearms and destructive devices in furtherance of drug trafficking.
Q: Has he been captured?
A: No. He remains a fugitive after the U.S. operation that captured his father on January 3, 2026.
Q: What was his political role?
A: He has held several government posts since 2013 and currently serves as a member of Venezuela’s National Assembly.
