An American journalist returned to Miami Sunday after he was held for nearly 48 hours by Venezuelan authorities. Miami Herald reporter Jim Wyss was released Saturday to U.S. Embassy officials in Caracas, the Herald reported. "A sincere thanks to everyone who helped win my speedy release and to the Venezuelan authorities who made it possible," Wyss posted on his Twitter account soon after his release. "We're relieved and glad Jim is home safe and sound," said Aminda Marques Gonzalez, the Herald's executive editor. Authorities detained Wyss near the Colombian border Thursday while he was reporting on Venezuela's sputtering economy and pending municipal elections. The National Guard in San Cristobal apprehended Wyss after he asked for an interview with military officials. Venezuelan authorities said Wyss was detained because he did not have permission to report in the country. "I have deep respect for Venezuela and its people and I look forward to continuing to report from the country," Wyss said after he was released.