The Ministry of the Interior (MININT) forces have successfully apprehended the two inmates who had escaped from Canaleta Prison in Ciego de Ávila, a situation that had raised serious concerns about the apparent gaps in prison security. The news was shared on Thursday via Facebook by the pro-government page Avileños de Corazón, identifying the captured fugitives as Ángel Luis Torres Santana, known as “Michel,” and Idalberto Pérez Olivera, alias “Basurita.”
Labeled as “fugitives from justice” by the authorities, the inmates had managed to break free from the penitentiary and were traced following an intensive MININT operation that, according to sources, continued tirelessly until their recapture. The state-run profile, which lauded the capture with a propagandistic tone, refrained from disclosing specific details about the exact location and circumstances of the arrest, as well as the duration of their escape.
On August 24, an alert was issued when two inmates deemed highly dangerous escaped from Ciego de Ávila Provincial Prison, commonly referred to as "Canaleta." Furthermore, it was revealed that both inmates had a record of murder, extreme violence, and repeat offenses, prompting authorities to release an official alert and request public assistance to expedite their capture.
Profiles of the Recaptured Inmates
A notification circulated on social media containing photos and criminal details of the escapees, initially reported by the news portal La Tijera and subsequently shared by other profiles. This document sparked public alarm by revealing the severity of the crimes committed by the fugitives.
The inmates were identified as Ángel Luis Torres Santana, aged 54, sentenced to 28 years, and Idalberto Pérez Olivera, alias “Basurita,” aged 27, sentenced to 16 and a half years. Both were serving sentences for severe offenses and had a history of recidivism.
Ángel Luis Torres Santana (ID 71020826722, case file 37002469) was incarcerated on December 5, 2005, with a 28-year sentence for murder, threats, contempt, and prisoner escape. He was scheduled for release on February 14, 2037. Known for his violent nature, he was considered a repeat offender, without a legal residence, and connected to areas in Old Havana. His history of escapes made him a direct threat to public safety.
Idalberto Pérez Olivera, alias “Basurita” (ID 88101422189, case file 26510004), was detained on January 27, 2017, receiving a 16-year and 6-month sentence for murder, armed robbery, assault, and illegal possession of a firearm. He was set to be released on July 19, 2035. A resident of Batey Grúa Nueva, Primero de Enero municipality, he was identified as a highly dangerous individual, with a record marked by violence and repeated criminal behavior.
Systemic Failures in Cuban Prisons
Both Torres Santana and Pérez Olivera were listed among the highest-risk inmates in the country, which explains the swift issuance of official alerts following their escape and the extensive police operation to capture them. In Pérez's case, known as “Basurita,” this was not his first escape; he had previously broken out in January and was apprehended in Batey Grúa Nueva, municipality Primero de Enero, where he reportedly used a firearm to intimidate locals into providing him with food and drinks.
This episode highlights the incompetence and deficiencies of the Cuban prison system, which not only allowed the escape of two inmates labeled as highly dangerous but also, in the case of Idalberto Pérez Olivera, alias “Basurita,” reveals the alarming reality that he managed to escape twice in the same year, exposing the weaknesses in the country’s prison control mechanisms.
Key Questions about the Cuban Prison System
How did the inmates manage to escape from Canaleta Prison?
Details on the exact method of escape from Canaleta Prison have not been disclosed, highlighting concerns about the facility's security protocols and oversight.
What measures are in place to prevent future prison escapes in Cuba?
The Cuban authorities have yet to specify any new measures, but the recent escapes underscore the urgent need for improved security and monitoring systems in the country's prisons.
What was the public reaction to the inmate escapes?
The public expressed alarm upon learning of the escapes, especially given the severity of the inmates' crimes and their potential threat to community safety.