The Cuban human rights group, Cubalex, has raised alarms this month over the deaths of three inmates at Las Tunas Provincial Prison, known locally as El Típico, amid extreme malnutrition, severe food shortages, and lack of medical care.
One of the most distressing cases involves Yoandry Cutiño Oliva, a 34-year-old from the La Victoria neighborhood in Las Tunas.
According to Cubalex, Cutiño Oliva, who stood about 1.78 meters tall, weighed only 32 kilograms at the time of his death, a condition the organization describes as critically deteriorated.
Despite this dire state, prison officials claimed his death was due to cancer, a statement Cubalex openly challenges.
The second identified victim is José Rivero Consuegra, aged 63, from Manatí, who suffered a heart attack two days before his death. Another inmate, whose identity remains unconfirmed, also succumbed to malnutrition.
Inhumane Food Conditions
Cubalex describes the prison's diet as inhumane, with inmates receiving a main dish of a worm-infested pasta emitting a foul odor.
Moreover, a snack previously consisting of a piece of bread and watered-down soda has been discontinued. When inmates complain about the food shortage, prison officials simply tell them to "drink plenty of water."
The organization warns that these conditions pose a severe risk to those suffering from diabetes or other chronic illnesses requiring proper nutrition and medical monitoring.
Historical Abuses at El Típico
El Típico has a documented history of severe violations. In 2020, four out of six reported prison suicides in Cuba occurred there. Reports from 2024 highlighted the use of torture in the prison's infirmary, along with widespread malnutrition, insufficient rations, and the absence of basic incarceration conditions.
National Pattern of Custodial Deaths
The August deaths are part of a national pattern Cubalex has been documenting for years. The organization recorded at least 39 deaths in custody in Cuba during the first half of 2026, including four political prisoners, and cautioned that these figures are likely underreported.
The situation is exacerbated by data released in April by Prisoners Defenders, whose report on forced malnutrition in Cuban prisons revealed that the daily diet provides only 250 to 353 kilocalories—just 10-14% of the minimum requirement for a sedentary adult—posing potentially irreversible harm to approximately 90,000 inmates.
Cubalex is demanding independent and impartial investigations into these deaths.
“The Cuban state is responsible for safeguarding the life, health, and integrity of those in its custody, ensuring sufficient and adequate food, potable water, dignified incarceration conditions, and timely medical care,” emphasized the organization, urging an immediate government response to the severe risks faced by inmates at El Típico.
Frequently Asked Questions about Conditions in Cuban Prisons
What organization reported the deaths at Las Tunas Provincial Prison?
The Cuban human rights organization Cubalex reported the deaths.
Why are the conditions in El Típico prison described as inhumane?
Conditions are described as inhumane due to extreme malnutrition, inadequate food supply, and lack of medical attention.
What historical abuses have been reported at El Típico?
El Típico has a history of severe violations, including suicides, torture, and widespread malnutrition.