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Venezuelan security forces are deploying in large numbers in Caracas ahead of planned demonstrations by supporters of opposition leader Juan Guaido.

Police units and members of the National Guard gathered Saturday at some intersections in the Venezuelan capital wearing helmets and carrying shields and other anti-riot gear.

Several columns of security forces moved through the city on motorcycles.

Meanwhile, backers of President Nicolas Maduro planned to hold a rival demonstration as power returned to many parts of Venezuela after the country's worst blackout.

The blackout started late Thursday, intensifying a deepening economic and political crisis.

National Assembly leader Guaido is staging protests as part of his campaign to oust Maduro and hold elections. Maduro says he is the target of a U.S.-backed coup plot.