Caracas -The Strategic Command Operations of the Bolivarian National Armed Forces (CEOFANB) has confirmed the downing of an aircraft that was violating Venezuelan airspace, in southern Maracaibo Lake, Zulia state.

The CEOFANB published a note last night on its Twitter account expressing that it shot down the aircraft in sovereign sky in southern Maracaibo Lake through the Aerospace Defense System.'

Venezuelan Defense Minister, Vladimir Padrino Lopez, commented that the National Bolivarian Armed Forces (FANB) is an institution committed to the defense of the sovereignty, under the principles established in the constitution.

'Any person or thing that attacks our sovereignty will receive a firm and forceful response from the FANB,' General Padrino said.

No further details of the incident have been so far offered and it is unknown where demolished aircraft came from.