The official death toll from the catastrophic double earthquake that struck Venezuela on 24 June has been revised upward to 3,342, according to a government statement released on Sunday.
The update follows a previous official figure of 2,954 deaths, reported just a day earlier.
Authorities also confirmed 16,740 injuries, while avoiding providing a clear figure for missing persons.
Thousands still unaccounted for
The United Nations estimates that the number of missing could be as high as 50,000, while other assessments place the figure at around 10,000.
The earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude and occurring 39 seconds apart, caused widespread destruction across northern Venezuela.
Mass burials amid ongoing crisis
Journalists from AFP reported that more than 150 unidentified victims were buried in mass graves at a cemetery in La Guaira, alongside additional identified burials in separate sections.
Heavy machinery continues to dig trenches as the burial of additional victims proceeds.
Public anger over response
Delcy Rodríguez, the acting head of state, rejected claims of potential social unrest, insisting the country is united in solidarity during the national tragedy.
However, residents in heavily affected areas have expressed anger over what they describe as inadequate government assistance.
Widespread destruction and displacement
More than 16,000 people have been left homeless after hundreds of buildings collapsed completely or partially.
In La Guaira, one of the hardest-hit areas near Caracas, rescue teams continue to search through rubble as demolition crews clear unstable structures.
The disaster has left the country in mourning, with many still searching for missing relatives amid ongoing recovery efforts.
Also read: UN warns of exceptionally strong ongoing El Niño
For more videos and updates, check out our YouTube channel
