Cuban reggaeton artist Abel Díaz Rodríguez, better known as El Chulo, is reportedly the victim of a severe beating at the ICE detention center in Homestead, Florida. This facility, infamously referred to as "Alligator Alcatraz" by migrants, has come under scrutiny following an urgent complaint shared on social media.
In an Instagram story shared by the artist, it is alleged that "human rights of detainees are being violated" within the facility. El Chulo was reportedly pulled violently from his cell and assaulted after he protested against the lack of medical care for a diabetic immigrant.
The statement reads, "We denounce the abuse against Abel Díaz 'El Chulo,' who was beaten and removed from his cell without cause after protesting the lack of medication for a diabetic detainee."
The complaint further highlights the inhumane conditions at the center, including the inadequate supply of medication for individuals with chronic illnesses.
Additionally, the message claims that officials have been repeatedly photographing El Chulo's tattoos, allegedly attempting to link him to the Latin Kings gang, a charge described as "completely false."
"Officials have been photographing his tattoos repeatedly to falsely associate him with the Latin Kings," the publication asserts.
The statement lists several detainees as witnesses, including Yunier Rojas, Jorge Luis Díaz, Carlos Ponce, Oniel Gómez, and Guillermo Nápoles.
It concludes with a demand for an "immediate investigation and respect for human rights."
This denunciation surfaces just days after El Chulo broke his silence from the detention center, describing dire conditions and stating that he was experiencing the worst period of his life.
In a phone conversation with journalist Maylin Legañoa, the artist revealed that detainees are permitted to bathe only twice a week, lights are kept on constantly, and medications are withheld even when prescribed.
"This is the worst experience of my life," he stated at that time.
El Chulo was arrested on January 22, as confirmed by journalist Mario J. Pentón, who noted that the arrest was related to an old outstanding deportation order.
Key Concerns About ICE Detention Centers
What are the alleged human rights violations at the Homestead ICE detention center?
Allegations include detainees being removed and assaulted without cause, inadequate medical care, and attempts to falsely link detainees to gangs through tattoo photographs.
Why was El Chulo arrested?
El Chulo's arrest is reportedly linked to an outstanding deportation order from a previous incident.
Who are some of the witnesses to the alleged abuse?
Witnesses include Yunier Rojas, Jorge Luis Díaz, Carlos Ponce, Oniel Gómez, and Guillermo Nápoles, as mentioned in the statement.