Early Friday morning, an agent from the Revolutionary National Police (PNR) was discovered deceased along a stretch of highway linking Remedios and Caibarién in Villa Clara, according to reports from independent media outlets and local residents.
The officer, known by the last name Mesa and nicknamed "Cal Viva," was found lying on the road in an area referred to as La Cabaña, as reported by the publication La Tijera on Facebook. Witnesses indicated that the body appeared to have a gunshot wound to the forehead, and the officer's service weapon was notably absent, although these details have yet to receive official confirmation.
The site was reportedly cordoned off for several hours with a significant presence of police and State Security personnel actively investigating the scene. Mesa's reputation has sparked mixed reactions on social media. According to residents quoted by La Tijera, Mesa served as the Sector Chief in La Reforma, where he was remembered for alleged abuses and repression against the community, actions that allegedly led to the incarceration of several individuals. "Notably, he was promoted on June 6 for his role in repressing the populace," the post's author noted.
Conversely, some online users defended Mesa. Wilfredo Quiñones stated, "Mesa was primarily focused on apprehending criminals and was considered one of the most effective in the eyes of the community. Yet, people only remember the law when it affects them."
In a subsequent post, La Tijera shared images showing part of the body on the ground surrounded by officers. "He's still lying on the highway; this place is swarming with police and State Security personnel," commented the source who provided the images.
Meanwhile, CubaNet reported having access to two videos depicting the bloodied officer sprawled on the roadway as other officers redirected traffic. "He had a gunshot wound in the center of his forehead and about four stab wounds in his chest," a witness told CubaNet.
One of the recordings features a bus driver recounting that he saw the officer conversing with someone on the roadside hours before. Another witness claimed the deceased was "an abuser." It is important to note that there is currently no official confirmation regarding the cause of death or the circumstances surrounding the discovery, beyond what these reports have suggested. So far, Cuban authorities have not issued a public statement on the matter.
Key Questions About the Incident in Villa Clara
What details have been confirmed about the officer's death?
As of now, there is no official confirmation regarding the officer's cause of death. Reports suggest a gunshot wound to the forehead and multiple stab wounds, but these details are not officially verified.
How has the community reacted to the officer's death?
The community's reaction has been divided. While some remember the officer for alleged abuses, others defend his actions as focused on crime prevention.
Have authorities released any statements regarding the incident?
As of now, Cuban authorities have not made any public statements about the officer's death or the investigation surrounding it.