In a recent crackdown by Cuban authorities, at least five individuals have been detained following a citizen protest in Guanabacoa. Residents took to the streets to express their frustration over persistent power outages and water shortages. This latest wave of dissent has been met with violence by the Cuban regime.
The non-governmental organization, Cubalex, confirmed on Wednesday the arbitrary arrest of an entire family. The family includes Hiromi Moliner, her husband, known only as "El Nene," and their two adult children, Donovan Fernando López and Deyanira López. Additionally, Sunamis Quintero García, mother of two young children, was also detained.
Arbitrary Arrests Amid Growing Discontent
Cubalex reported that the arrests followed a protest on June 29 in Guanabacoa, amidst increasing dissatisfaction over the severe decline in living conditions in Cuba. The regime's response was one of aggression, quelling the protest and detaining several local residents.
Particularly concerning is the detention of Hiromi Moliner, who requires specialized medical care following breast cancer surgery about a year ago. She is also the mother of two minors, now in the care of relatives. According to Cubalex, the family was initially taken to the PNR station in Alamar and later transferred to Villa Marista, the headquarters of State Security, where they remain isolated.
Detention of Quintero García Sparks Outcry
Activists and independent media have also highlighted the case of Sunamis Quintero García. The young mother was forcibly arrested at her home by three police officers while shouting slogans like "Freedom!" and "Long live free Cuba!" Her mother, Moraima García, revealed that authorities intend to prosecute her as the leader of the protest, despite her lack of direct involvement.
Cubalex criticized the regime's excessive force in suppressing peaceful protests and criminalizing citizens exercising their right to demonstrate. The organization has called for the immediate release of all arbitrarily detained individuals and the protection of their fundamental rights.
Widespread Discontent Across the Capital
Protests have not been limited to Guanabacoa. On the night of June 30, residents in the La Lisa municipality banged pots and pans in response to the prolonged blackouts affecting the capital.
In mid-June, graffiti appeared on the exterior wall of a medical clinic in the La Hata neighborhood of Guanabacoa, reading "Down with the dictatorship. Díaz-Canel singao." Meanwhile, a new message was painted over the weekend on a wall in Buenavista, Playa, declaring "Raúl singao. Down with the dictatorship," adding to the growing public expressions of disapproval towards the Cuban regime.
In Artemisa's municipalities of San Antonio de los Baños and Caimito, several signs have also emerged, challenging the fear, surveillance, and repression with anti-regime messages.
Understanding the Recent Protests in Cuba
What triggered the protests in Guanabacoa?
The protests in Guanabacoa were sparked by the ongoing power outages and water shortages, which have significantly affected the daily lives of residents.
Why is Hiromi Moliner's arrest particularly concerning?
Hiromi Moliner's arrest is alarming due to her critical health condition; she underwent breast cancer surgery a year ago and requires ongoing medical attention.
How has the Cuban regime responded to the protests?
The Cuban regime has responded to the protests with violence, detaining protestors and utilizing excessive force to suppress public dissent.