As US aircraft closed in over Venezuela, General Dan Caine says their helicopters came under fire.
One was hit, but remained “flyable”, he says.
“We arrived at Maduro’s compound at 1.01am Eastern Standard Time, or 2.01am Caracas local time [6.01am UK time],” he adds.
“And the apprehension force descended into Maduro’s compound and moved with speed, precision and discipline towards their objective and isolated the area to ensure the safety and security of the ground force while apprehending the indicted persons.”
He says Maduro and his wife “gave up” and were taken into custody, with no loss of US life despite a shootout.
“After securing the indicted persons, the force began to prep for departure,” he adds.
“Helicopters were called in to exfiltrate the extraction force, while fighter aircraft and remotely piloted aircraft provided overhead coverage and suppressive fire.
“There were multiple self-defence engagements.”
By 3.29am Eastern Standard Time – a little less than two and a half hours after entering Maduro’s compound – he says both Maduro and his wife were taken onto the USS Iwo Jima.
