One of the 32 Cuban military personnel who died during the U.S. military operation in Venezuela, which ended with Nicolás Maduro's capture on January 3rd, has been identified.
The individual is Colonel Humberto Alfonso Roca, aged 67, who, according to social media posts, was a significant member of Maduro's Security Detail, serving as a crucial leader within the personal protection setup for the Venezuelan leader.
Photos and reports shared online suggest that Roca was not only involved in Maduro's direct security but was also present at high-profile events, potentially providing escort services to figures such as Pope Francis and former U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry during their visits to Cuba.
With over 30 years of service in the Ministry of the Interior's Personal Security Directorate, Colonel Roca was also part of Fidel Castro's inner security circle, accompanying him on numerous official trips, international summits, and high-level diplomatic events.
Internal sources from the regime reveal that Roca was also an active member of the Intelligence Directorate, underscoring his trusted role within Cuba's repressive apparatus both domestically and internationally.
Graphic evidence further corroborates his involvement in high-level security operations, including his presence as part of the escort for the deceased Pope Francis during his trip to Cuba, and for John Kerry during his official visit to Havana.
Recently, the Cuban regime disclosed the names and photos of the 32 military personnel who perished in Venezuela, all belonging to the Revolutionary Armed Forces and the Ministry of the Interior of Cuba, featuring ranks ranging from colonels to lower-ranked officers.
Authorities in Havana declared two days of national mourning to honor the fallen, presenting them as heroes who "fulfilled their duty with dignity and heroism."
For years, Cuban officers and agents have been integral to the security and intelligence framework protecting Maduro's regime, even after Hugo Chávez's death.
International security experts had previously documented the presence of Cuban personnel in the restructuring and oversight of high-ranking Venezuelan officials, granting Havana direct influence over the intelligence and protection systems of the Chavismo regime.
The deaths of Roca and other Cuban officers reveal the extent of this military cooperation amid heightened geopolitical tensions between the United States, Cuba, and Venezuela, following the U.S. operation to apprehend Maduro and send him to New York courts on federal charges.
Analysts note that the enduring presence of Cuban advisors and security forces alongside Maduro was a cornerstone for the Chavista regime's survival over the years, and their defeat in the U.S. operation also symbolizes a blow to Cuba's influence in the region.
Cuban Military Involvement in Venezuela: Key Questions Answered
Who was Colonel Humberto Alfonso Roca?
Colonel Humberto Alfonso Roca was a 67-year-old Cuban officer who played a significant role in Nicolás Maduro's security detail. He was involved in high-profile security operations and had a long-standing career in Cuba's Personal Security Directorate.
How significant is Cuban military involvement in Venezuela?
Cuban military involvement in Venezuela has been crucial, providing security and intelligence support to Maduro's regime. This cooperation has allowed Havana to exert influence over Venezuelan operations and maintain a foothold in Chavismo's power structure.
What was the impact of the U.S. operation on Cuban influence in Venezuela?
The U.S. operation that led to the capture of Nicolás Maduro and the deaths of Cuban officers is seen as a symbolic blow to Cuba's influence in the region. It exposed the depth of military cooperation and challenged Havana's longstanding support for the Chavista regime.