Martiño Ramos Soto, a Galician music teacher and fugitive from Spanish justice, has been discovered hiding in Cuba. Known for his leftist political involvement, Ramos Soto was once an active figure in the political scene of As Burgas, Ourense. He was affiliated with the left-wing parties En Común and En Marea, as reported by the Spanish media outlet, 20 Minutos.
Currently one of Spain's top ten most wanted fugitives, Ramos Soto previously portrayed himself as a feminist ally and committed leftist. However, his dark past includes the abuse of a vulnerable minor, whom he taught since elementary school.
The abuse started when the girl was 12, during her sixth-grade year. Ramos Soto initiated contact by posing as a peer who empathized with her troubles. This deceit led to a meeting in a classroom where, according to court records, he manipulated the child emotionally, hugging her, professing affection, and eventually kissing her. This marked the beginning of numerous abusive encounters at the school.
Ramos Soto subjected the victim to degrading and violent acts, including slapping and whipping, ultimately escalating to rape. On one occasion, he violently assaulted her and left her abandoned in a rural area.
In 2021, after enduring four years of continuous abuse, the victim filed a complaint with the civil guard. That same year, the court sentenced Ramos Soto to 13 years of imprisonment. However, when authorities attempted to arrest him, he had already vanished.
Discovery in Cuba
Spanish National Police recently requested heightened surveillance from Cuban authorities after locating Ramos Soto in Havana, where he has lived since July. Despite being among Spain's most wanted, there is no active extradition treaty between Cuba and Spain. Nevertheless, diplomatic and police discussions are ongoing to secure his return.
According to Europa Press, the Ourense Provincial Court formally requested his extradition on October 31, confirming his presence in the Cuban capital through police sources. Investigators revealed that Ramos Soto evaded capture by traveling with his passport through Portugal, Brazil, and Peru, before arriving in Cuba.
In Cuba, the 50-year-old fugitive has assumed the alias “Martín Soto” and works as a documentary photographer in Havana's El Vedado district. He is known to frequent local galleries and cafes, maintaining a low profile far removed from his past in Spain.
The Spanish National Police have urged Cuban authorities to keep Ramos Soto under close watch while the extradition process is underway. Meanwhile, Cuban state media have neither reported on this case nor confirmed any detention in Havana.
Frequently Asked Questions about Martiño Ramos Soto's Case
Why is Martiño Ramos Soto wanted by Spanish authorities?
Martiño Ramos Soto is wanted for the sexual abuse of a minor, a crime for which he was sentenced to 13 years in prison but evaded arrest by fleeing Spain.
How did Ramos Soto manage to escape Spain?
Ramos Soto escaped using his passport, traveling through Portugal, Brazil, and Peru before reaching Cuba, where he has been living under an assumed name.
What actions are being taken to extradite Ramos Soto back to Spain?
The Ourense Provincial Court has formally requested his extradition, and Spanish authorities are in contact with Cuban officials to ensure his return.