Miami Police Chief Responds to Threats: "FBI Investigates Cuban Propagandist"

Manuel (Manny) Morales, the head of the Miami Police Department, recently informed the public that the FBI is conducting an investigation into threats made by the Cuban propaganda channel known as Guerrero Cubano, allegedly operated by Cuba's State Security. Morales stated during a press briefing, "While I'm not afraid, I do believe it is a serious crime for a foreign government official to issue threats via social media." He further emphasized that the threat against him "couldn't be clearer, indicating that danger is present everywhere."

The case has been escalated to federal authorities. "We have been in communication with members of the FBI, and they will be leading the investigation from this point forward," Morales confirmed. These threats emerged after his involvement in the International Conference to Save Cuba on September 13, where he shared his views on the role of Cuban law enforcement in the struggle for democracy.

FBI Takes Charge of Investigation

Morales has already filed a police report, and his officers are collaborating closely with FBI agents. "The primary investigative agency will be the FBI," he reiterated, adding that discussions with the U.S. Federal Prosecutor's Office will follow to understand the situation further. He underscored the severity of the situation, stating, "It's quite serious that these individuals in Cuba believe they have the authority to threaten a U.S. citizen, especially one serving in public office."

Efforts to Deactivate Propaganda Channel

The investigation's primary goal is to shut down the Cuban regime's propaganda channel. In the long run, the case will be presented to both state and federal prosecutors to determine the appropriate charges. The threats were issued via a video on the Guerrero Cubano channel, where an unidentified voice issued warnings against Morales and Cuban dissident Orlando Gutiérrez-Boronat, head of the Cuban Democratic Directorate.

The voice in the video ominously warns, "I repeat, save yourselves because no one's life in that country is guaranteed," referring to the United States. It also mentions the "anti-Cuban mafia" and adds, "Danger is everywhere."

A Channel with a History of Threats

The Guerrero Cubano profile has a notorious history of spreading slander and harassment against Cuban exiles and dissidents on the island. Previously, platforms like YouTube and Twitter suspended its accounts for violating policies against hate and violence. According to Martí Noticias, the channel is allegedly run by Colonel Pedro Orlando Martínez Fernández, head of the Political Organization of the National Revolutionary Police (PNR) in Cuba. Other sources claim it might be former spy Antonio Guerrero, from whom the channel’s name is derived.

Gutiérrez-Boronat believes the channel is "involved in real operations in South Florida." He has taken personal security measures but insisted, "That will not stop my actions for Cuba's freedom."

Background of Chief Morales

Manuel Morales joined the Miami Police Department in 1994 after serving four years in the U.S. Army. He has held various positions, including patrol officer, detective, lieutenant, commander, and major. In February 2022, he was appointed as Miami’s Police Chief, overseeing more than 1,300 sworn officers and around 400 civilian employees.

Morales concluded, "I believe that Cuban police officers know in their hearts that their role is not to be a tool of the dictatorship that instills terror and fear. They should be the protective shield of the Cuban community."