On February 18, professor Alina Bárbara López Hernández and activist Leonardo Romero Negrín returned to their homes after several hours of uncertainty following their disappearance in Matanzas.
The news of their return was shared by Cecilia Borroto López, the professor's daughter, who announced on social media that both individuals were safely back home.
"I don't have more details due to limited Internet access. I hope tomorrow they, or I in their place, can explain what happened," Borroto shared.
She also expressed gratitude to those who brought attention to their situation: "Cubans are not alone; we have each other."
Earlier, family members confirmed that López Hernández and Romero Negrín were being held at the National Revolutionary Police (PNR) station in Playa, Matanzas. Authorities refused to provide information over the phone regarding their whereabouts.
In another update, Cecilia Borroto warned that political police intended to "press charges" against them, although specifics were not yet disclosed.
She also highlighted the potential fabrication of charges to justify the detention. Her complaint noted the absence of legal counsel during the "discussion" at the police station.
The detention occurred in the morning after López Hernández left her home for her monthly peaceful protest, an action she performs every 18th of the month. Initially, family members reported her phone was off and police did not confirm her custody status.
Both Alina Bárbara López and Leonardo Romero Negrín have been repeatedly detained for peacefully exercising their right to protest in Cuba.
The intellectual also faces a legal process alongside activist Jenny Pantoja Torres, whose trial was recently postponed without official explanation.
So far, authorities have not publicly commented on the events nor confirmed any formal charges. It is anticipated that those involved will provide more details about the incident in the coming hours.
Key Questions About Detentions in Cuba
What triggered the detention of Alina Bárbara López and Leonardo Romero?
The detention followed López Hernández's participation in her monthly peaceful protest, a regular action she undertakes every 18th of the month.
Why was there concern about possible charges against them?
Family members and supporters were concerned due to warnings from political police about potential charges, despite no clear allegations being made at the time.
Have Alina Bárbara López and Leonardo Romero faced detention before?
Yes, both have been detained multiple times for peacefully exercising their right to protest in Cuba.