Yamilka Laffita, an activist better known online as Lara Crofs, sustained an injury to her right foot following a forceful arrest by the Revolutionary National Police (PNR) in Havana on Monday. Her whereabouts were unknown for several hours after she left the home of writer Jorge Fernández Era in the Antonio Guiteras neighborhood, only to be stopped by a police patrol.
The incident sparked outcry on social media, with figures like Daniela Peral, Elena De Armas, and Fernández Era himself demanding to know Laffita's whereabouts and urging the state security to release her. Later that day, Laffita resurfaced, confirming her release and detailing the violent nature of her arrest on her Facebook profile.
"I'm back home with a grade 2 sprain on my right foot. Thankfully, it's not severe and will heal quickly with proper care," she posted. Lara Crofs elaborated that the injury resulted from a push by a police officer as she resisted entering the patrol car, deeming her detention unjustified.
The activist declared her intention to continue exercising her right to freedom, meet with whomever she chooses, and support those striving for a dignified future. She also voiced her respect for Jorge Fernández Era, expressing her deep admiration for him.
In her post, she encouraged the Cuban people, stating, "Repression cannot halt our fight or silence our voices. The Cuban people are ready to reclaim their dignity."
During her disappearance, several activists issued stern warnings to the state security through social media. Elena De Armas posted on Facebook, "Lara Crofs is untouchable. She has the affection and support of all of Cuba. You have been warned," denouncing the repressive actions of the authorities.
Yamilka Laffita has gained a significant presence on social media for her civic activism and critical stance against the Cuban government, making her one of the most prominent voices in condemning abuses, advocating for political prisoners, and championing social causes in Cuba.
Cuban Activism and Police Encounters
What happened to Yamilka Laffita in Havana?
Yamilka Laffita, an activist also known as Lara Crofs, was violently arrested by the Revolutionary National Police in Havana, resulting in an injury to her right foot.
Why was Yamilka Laffita's detention considered unjustified?
Laffita resisted entering the police patrol car as she believed her detention was unwarranted, leading to a physical altercation with the officers.
How did the Cuban community respond to Laffita's arrest?
The Cuban community, including activists and public figures, demanded her release and criticized the authorities' repressive measures through social media platforms.