Gabriel Jesus Sarmiento, a 25-year-old Venezuelan TikTok influencer known for his outspoken views on organised crime, was shot dead at his home during a livestream in which he was reportedly speaking against powerful criminal gangs and their alleged links with law enforcement.

The shocking incident, which unfolded in real-time on social media, has triggered widespread outrage and renewed concerns over the growing influence of organised crime in Venezuela, local media reported.

During his livestream, Sarmiento was addressing the role of criminal organisations such as 'El Tren de Aragua' and 'El Tren del Llano,' groups he had frequently criticised for their grip on communities and alleged protection by corrupt elements within the police.