CubaHeadlines

Wife of Cuban Dissident José Daniel Ferrer Detained En Route to Prison with Children Demanding Proof of Life

Wednesday, July 2, 2025 by Bella Nunez

Cuban activist Ana Belkis Ferrer reported on Wednesday that her sister-in-law, Dr. Nelva Ismarays Ortega Tamayo, was taken into custody by regime agents while she was heading with her children to Mar Verde prison in Santiago de Cuba. Their mission was to demand proof of life for opposition leader José Daniel Ferrer. "Around 11 a.m., the wife and two children of #SOSFerrer went to Mar Verde prison to demand proof of life, which was denied. Two Castro regime enforcers detained Nelva and took her to an unknown location," Ana Belkis shared on social media regarding her brother.

The arrest of Ortega Tamayo comes amid growing concern for the health and whereabouts of Ferrer, the leader of the Patriotic Union of Cuba (UNPACU), who recently initiated a hunger strike to protest against abuses and inhumane conditions. Additionally, Ferrer reported being beaten in prison by two other inmates acting on orders from Cuban regime enforcers.

Ferrer García was reincarcerated on April 29 following the revocation of his parole. Since then, his family has reported that he is held under inhumane conditions, subjected to prolonged isolation, denied adequate medical care, and provided with insufficient food.

Authorities have repeatedly blocked his wife and children from visiting him, even refusing them the right to deliver food and hygiene products. Ortega Tamayo's arrest has sparked a wave of outrage among activists and human rights organizations, who are calling for her immediate release and assurances regarding Ferrer's physical and psychological well-being.

"Freedom for all political detainees and prisoners! Down with the Castro-Canel communist dictatorship!" declared Ana Belkis Ferrer in her alert, noting that after Dr. Ortega Tamayo's detention, the eldest daughter, Fátima Beatriz, took charge of the younger son, Daniel José, and "decided to return to the UNPACU headquarters."

The plight of Ferrer and his family has become a symbol of political repression in Cuba, where authorities use the prison system as a tool for punishing dissent. International bodies such as the European Parliament and the U.S. government have condemned his arrest and demanded his release.

In Miami, human rights activists have launched various campaigns to draw attention to Ferrer's case, including erecting billboards demanding his immediate release along with all Cuban political prisoners. The international community continues to monitor the situation of José Daniel Ferrer and his family, urging the Cuban regime to uphold human rights and free all political prisoners.

Key Questions on José Daniel Ferrer's Detention

Why was Nelva Ismarays Ortega Tamayo arrested?

Nelva Ismarays Ortega Tamayo was arrested by regime agents as she sought proof of life for her husband, José Daniel Ferrer, at Mar Verde prison.

What actions are being taken internationally for Ferrer's release?

International bodies like the European Parliament and the U.S. government have condemned Ferrer's arrest and are demanding his release. Activists in Miami have also organized campaigns to raise awareness.

What are the reported conditions of José Daniel Ferrer's imprisonment?

Ferrer is reportedly held under inhumane conditions, with prolonged isolation, lack of adequate medical care, and insufficient nutrition.

© CubaHeadlines 2025