Venezuelan opposition call arrest of top industrialist a political witch-hunt - Opposition leaders in Venezuela have described the arrest of a top industrialist as a political witch-hunt.

www.channelnewsasia.com First created : 21 February 2003 1157 hrs (SST) 0357 hrs (GMT) Last modified : 21 February 2003 1204 hrs (SST) 0404 hrs (GMT)

Carlos Fernandes was seized outside a Caracas steakhouse at around midnight and bundled into a waiting car.Advertisement Mr Fernandez, along with union boss Carlos Ortega, were believed to have started a crippling two-month strike to oust President Hugo Chavez.

A judge ordered the two to be detained for rebellion against the state, sabotage and other charges.

Opposition leaders, whose complaints against the arrest were dismissed, stepped up demonstrations.

The crackdown has also triggered concern from the international community.

The United States said the arrest was worrisome and could undermine talks between the government and opposition over the Venezuelan elections.