Venezuela Recoups 4 Billion Bolivares From 'Financial Mafias'

President Nicolas Maduro announced Saturday that the government has reclaimed 4 billion bolivares from "financial mafias" who have been accumulating and hoarding 100 bolivar bills as part of a program of economic war against the country.

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The announcement by the Venezuelan leader comes after planes delivering new bills were rerouted and delayed as part of a campaign of "international sabotage" against the country.

President Maduro also confirmed that Venezuela's border closure with Brazil and Colombia would be extended until Jan. 2, 2017, also declaring the 100 bolivar bill valid until the same date, when it will go out of circulation as the country boldly attempts to tackle those waging economic war on the country.

On Friday, Maduro told a cabinet meeting that over the next few days, the Central Bank of Venezuela (BCV) will circulate 327 million units of 50 bolivar bills, and 65 million units of a new 500 bolivar note, after deciding to take the 100 bolivar bill out of circulation.

"Let's continue fighting against the financial mafias that are hurting our economy," said Maduro, who cited the exchange houses around the country — especially in Colombia border towns — which have been hoarding over 300 million of the bills.

During the week, dozens have been arrested for hoarding and speculating on the 100 bolivar bills. Officials accuse groups opposed to the government of undertaking an economic war against Maduro's administration.

Maduro added that the Central Bank would have 150 stations to expedite the process of exchange of 100-bolivar bills at the bank's headquarters in Caracas.

The plan, he said, is now complete for implementation next year, as are the funds and logistics for local committees that distribute food and basic goods to four million families.