Venezuela has suspended flights from neighbouring Colombia, after authorities detained more than 30 people over allegations of conspiracy.

During a statement on Monday, Venezuela’s Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello announced the flight ban was “immediate” and would last a week.

Reuters reported persons were detained on suspicion of plotting activities to destabilise the country before Sunday’s parliamentary election.

Minister Cabello confirmed the arrest of 38 individuals, including approximately 17 foreigners who had arrived from Colombia.