The U.S. Justice Department has reopened its investigation into Alex Saab, a businessman closely linked to Nicolás Maduro, less than three years after President Joe Biden pardoned him. According to The Frontier Post, Saab is under scrutiny for his involvement in an alleged bribery scheme related to Venezuelan government contracts for importing food. This investigation is tied to a 2021 case against Saab's partner, Alvaro Pulido, focusing on the CLAP program, which was designed to provide basic food supplies to impoverished Venezuelans during a period of hyperinflation. Saab, often referred to as Maduro's 'bag man,' amassed significant wealth through these contracts but has since fallen out of favor with Venezuela's new leadership following the U.S.-backed ouster of Maduro last month. The Washington Times reports that Saab's pardon by Biden in 2023 was part of a prisoner swap deal, which was controversial as it was opposed by law enforcement. The pardon was narrowly tailored to a 2019 indictment related to a separate bribery case involving low-income housing contracts that were never fulfilled. Saab's current whereabouts are unknown, with conflicting reports about his detention status in Venezuela. Luigi Giuliano, an attorney, confirmed meeting Saab recently in Caracas, denying his detention, while Saab's U.S. attorney, Neil Schuster, has not commented on the situation. The renewed investigation could potentially strengthen U.S. efforts to prosecute Maduro, with the backdrop of the Trump administration's attempts to stabilize relations with Venezuela. As reported by WSLS, the investigation marks a significant reversal for Saab, who had previously avoided prosecution due to the presidential pardon. The case highlights the complexities of international diplomacy and legal proceedings, especially concerning individuals previously granted clemency.