Born in1979
Fernando Lira was an engineer and family man. He was extrajudicially executed on March 6, 2019, alongside Eligio Duarte, in Guarenas, Miranda state. Days earlier, Lira had reportedly been the victim of a fraud related to the purchase of foreign currency. According to the subsequent criminal investigation, the person allegedly responsible for the fraud coordinated with officials of the Special Actions Forces (FAES) of the National Bolivarian Police to lure both men to a meeting at the Trapichito gas station. Upon arrival, they were intercepted by FAES officials, who opened fire without warning. According to eyewitness accounts and the investigation conducted by the Public Ministry, after both men were subdued, they were forced to kneel and were shot multiple times. Authorities allegedly delayed medical assistance and later transferred them to a more distant hospital, despite the existence of a nearby health center. They also reportedly attempted to present the deaths as the result of an armed confrontation with alleged kidnappers. The Public Ministry charged several FAES officials with qualified homicide, unlawful use of firearms, simulation of a punishable act, and other crimes. Although the case progressed to the trial stage, the judicial process has been marked by repeated delays, interruptions, and allegations of irregularities. Years after the events, the victims’ families continue to demand truth, justice, and accountability in one of the few cases involving the FAES in which state agents were criminally prosecuted for an alleged extrajudicial execution.