VHeadline commentarist and gold investor Dan Russo writes: Venezuela leading the entire world in murders ... with inflation and unemployment soaring out of control, recent polls show crime as the leading concern in Venezuela right now. Last year there were approximately 13,000 murders in Venezuela ... this is a staggering statistic.

Venezuela has the highest per capita murder rate in the world ... the gap between rich and critically poor continues to spread ... poverty and hunger are pervasive. People are begging for food and work. Corruption in the government which has plagued Venezuela's history continues full steam ahead.

Foreign Investment in Venezuela is dirty word around the world ... and so is 'Princess' Ortega!
The people want to work, but there are limited industries available to employ. That's why Chavez continues to talk big about attracting foreign investment.

Overnight, Hecla Mining in Idaho-USA reported that its is selling its mining interests in Venezuela to the Russian Agapov group's Rusoro. Wonder why? Basically, Hecla told Venezuela ... and Princess Ortega ... to kiss their you know what! They sent a message to the world that it's impossible to do business in Venezuela.

Wake up Chavez! This is just the beginning of a whirlpool effect that could take down investment in Venezuela like never seen before.

On the Crystallex front we heard some positive news from Minister Sanz who visited Crystallex' Remevin plant and is a plan for operations to begin. According to Crystallex V.P. of Investor Relations, Richard Marshall, their current cash position should be adequate through the summer of 2009. In my conversations with Chairman of the board, Robert Fung he'll make sure Crytstallex gets the financing it needs to see this project through.

• As for rumors of bankruptcy ... they're simply that! ... just rumors started by investors who have short positions.

And, Mr. Fung told me he is anxious to get the social programs going and to continue their infrastructure rebuilding for workers and their families in Venezuela. When I speak with him, I come away with the feeling that he's a very polite and determined man who wants to do the right thing for Venezuelan's, stakeholders and the Venezuelan environment.

Robert Fung is on a mission to show the world that mining projects can be done without damaging the environment.

People continue to ask the same question over and over when are we getting the permit? I don't know exactly ,,, but what I do know is that we are closer then ever before! Mark my words, Crystallex will get permit approval soon ... my bet is on Robert Fung.