> In any case, I'm sure that Chavez, like most dictators, has a crapload of money carefully squirreled away in foreign countries.

Probably, but where do you think that it came from?

> Attempting to steal Venezuela's own gold and then sneak out with all he can carry doesn't sound useful.

However, it is useful to steal it and start moving it now.

Plus, it's always useful to have some "traveling money" that will work when you're fleeing. You can't afford the time to negotiate good deals.