A recently shared video on social media captures the intense moment when a young man, reportedly shot during Friday night's protests in Morón, Ciego de Ávila, receives help from fellow demonstrators.
In the footage, filmed amidst the chaos of the protests, several individuals are seen carrying the young man—who some reports suggest might be a minor—and swiftly placing him on a motorcycle to seek medical attention.
Desperate shouts from onlookers echo around the scene, with some calling for assistance for the injured individual.
"Footage of the person shot during Morón protests... reports suggest he might be a minor. Awaiting confirmation," activist Magdiel Castro commented alongside the images on X.
The incident was highlighted by independent journalist José Raúl Gallego, who claimed on his Facebook profile that the young man was allegedly shot by a police officer during clashes in the city.
Reports indicate that the bullet struck the young man's thigh while he was near a bonfire outside the local headquarters of the Communist Party of Cuba (PCC), one of the focal points of the protests.
Gallego had earlier reported that the PCC's local office was set ablaze amidst the demonstrations.
According to his posts, several bicycles used by police officers were also torched during the unrest.
Social media reports also allege that special forces deployed in the area unleashed dogs on the demonstrators to disperse the crowd.
The journalist further mentioned that children and teenagers were among the protest participants, heightening concerns over the violence witnessed during the events.
So far, Cuban authorities have not issued any official statement regarding the incident or the injured young man's condition.
The Morón protests are unfolding against a backdrop of increasing public discontent over prolonged power outages, food shortages, and deteriorating living conditions in the country.
Numerous videos circulating on social media in recent hours feature chants of "Freedom!" and the sound of banging pots and pans as groups of residents take to the streets of the municipality.
Other reports from activists suggest that after initial clashes, the protest moved towards the city's police station, marking a tense day that reflects the rise of nighttime protests across various parts of Cuba.
Meanwhile, the country's authorities remain silent on these incidents, even as public allegations of repression during protests spurred by the island's economic and energy crises continue to grow.
Understanding the Morón Protests in Cuba
What sparked the protests in Morón, Cuba?
The protests in Morón were fueled by widespread frustration over prolonged power outages, food shortages, and worsening living conditions in Cuba.
What actions did authorities reportedly take during the protests?
Reports suggest that special forces deployed dogs against demonstrators, and the local headquarters of the Communist Party of Cuba was set on fire during the protests.
Has the Cuban government responded to the Morón incident?
As of now, the Cuban government has not released any official statement concerning the events in Morón or the condition of the young man allegedly shot.