Outrage is spreading across social media following a fresh report that highlights the repercussions of voicing an opinion in Cuba. Relatives of Felipe Rodríguez Ledesma, the tricycle driver who was detained in San Antonio de los Baños, now claim that the authorities aim to confiscate his livelihood.
The complaint was shared on Facebook by his sister, Maggie Y. Ale Agüero, who warned that the tricycle—purchased "through his hard work and sacrifice"—is slated to be handed over to the local government while Felipe remains in pretrial detention.
"His crime is being free and choosing who to transport in his vehicle," she wrote, referencing the sign Felipe had posted on his tricycle: "I don't transport regime informants or 'snitches.' Only free men," a statement that allegedly led to his arrest on March 3.
According to the family, a police officer has already communicated the decision regarding the tricycle, despite the fact that the case has yet to be reviewed by a court. "Not even an impartial judge has examined his case, yet they are already deciding the fate of what remains his property," his sister protested.
The post has sparked strong reactions among users who perceive the incident not only as punishment for a personal stance but also as a potential attempt to strip the elderly man of his means of support.
Felipe Rodríguez, 68, is known in his community as a humble and well-liked individual. Activists and neighbors had already reported his arrest days earlier, asserting that his sole "crime" was refusing to transport individuals he identified as informers for the regime, commonly referred to as "regime informants" or "snitches."
Now, the situation appears to be worsening. The possible seizure of his tricycle not only extends the uncertainty surrounding his case but also leaves his family without the means they rely on for survival.
"How far does the audacity go?" his sister questioned in her post, where she also urged others to share the report to draw attention to the situation.
So far, Cuban authorities have not provided official information on the case nor have they responded to the accusations regarding the seizure of the vehicle.
Meanwhile, on social media, the call for Felipe's freedom grows, along with condemnation of what many see as yet another example of repression and abuse of power on the island.
Key Questions About the Seizure of Felipe's Tricycle
Why was Felipe Rodríguez Ledesma arrested?
Felipe Rodríguez Ledesma was arrested for refusing to transport individuals he identified as regime informants, which he expressed through a sign on his tricycle.
What is happening with Felipe's tricycle?
Authorities intend to confiscate Felipe's tricycle and hand it over to the local government, despite the case not yet being evaluated by a court.
How has the community reacted to Felipe's situation?
The community, including activists and neighbors, has expressed outrage and called for his freedom, viewing the incident as an example of repression and abuse of power.