The Alas Tensas Gender Observatory (OGAT) has confirmed a femicide that occurred exactly a year ago: the murder of Merlin Yalili Mera Piña, a 20-year-old mother, who was killed by her former partner on August 6, 2025, in broad daylight in Bayamo, Granma, as her four-year-old son watched helplessly.
This tragic incident went undocumented for a year until journalists and influencers recently highlighted it on social media following the trial of the perpetrator. The victim's family believes the sentence handed down to the assailant was far too lenient.
"We share in the grief of her family and support their calls for justice, especially given the reports of potential due process violations during the trial," OGAT expressed on Facebook.
The organization also extended its gratitude to those who amplify these family pleas, ensuring that such tragedies do not go unnoticed. "Raising awareness is crucial in allowing new sources to come forward, enabling proper documentation and verification," they added.
Details of the Horrific Crime
Crime reporter Niover Licea, known on Facebook as "Nio reporting a crime," disclosed the identity of the perpetrator as Danian Pardo Ríos, also from Bayamo. Pardo Ríos has been tried and sentenced to 28 years in prison.
According to testimonies from family and acquaintances, Merlin ended a relationship of over three years with Pardo Ríos, only to face stalking and threats afterward. Her family claims she approached the police multiple times, seeking protection and a restraining order, to no avail.
Witnesses recount that Merlin was brutally attacked in Bayamo, suffering more than 20 stab wounds. Her son, merely four years old at the time, reportedly witnessed the horror. Now, he lives under the care of his grandmother and other relatives, who are struggling to cope with the immense loss while raising him.
Rising Femicide Numbers in Cuba
With this case verified, OGAT's records for 2025 show 49 confirmed femicides in Cuba, alongside two murders of men in femicidal contexts, 17 femicide attempts, and three cases requiring further police investigation.
The independent organization warns that these numbers likely underrepresent the true extent of the issue, as many deaths go unreported. Merlin Yalili's case exemplifies how many crimes are buried beneath institutional silence.
The profile of 2025's victims shows a grim pattern: 46.9% were killed by former partners; 89.7% of these crimes took place in the home; and 32 of the 49 victims left behind children, resulting in 54 minors without maternal protection.
The situation in 2026 appears even more dire. As of August 2, OGAT has recorded 46 femicides this year, reflecting a staggering increase of approximately 112% compared to the same period in 2025. Since 2019, the observatory has documented 359 femicides across the island.
Granma province has a recent history of femicides that the regime has failed to curb. In 2026 alone, Bayamo has witnessed similar crimes, including the murder of a seven-month pregnant woman in late July.
Cuba lacks comprehensive legislation against gender-based violence. Femicide is not recognized as a standalone crime in the Penal Code, effective since December 2022, and the country is devoid of specialized shelters for women in danger.
"These preventable deaths underscore the urgent need for shelters in Cuba to protect women, their children, families, and the community at large. In the face of a femicide threat, specialized protective structures are essential," Alas Tensas emphasized.
Frequently Asked Questions on Femicide and Gender Violence in Cuba
What is the current legal framework for addressing femicide in Cuba?
Cuba does not have a specific law addressing femicide as a distinct crime. The Penal Code, revised in December 2022, does not include femicide as an autonomous offense, and the country lacks comprehensive legislation against gender-based violence.
How has the number of femicides changed in Cuba over recent years?
The Alas Tensas Gender Observatory has documented a concerning increase in femicides, with 359 cases recorded since 2019. In 2026, there has been a 112% rise in femicides compared to the same period in 2025, highlighting a worsening crisis.
What support systems are currently available for victims of gender violence in Cuba?
Currently, Cuba lacks specialized shelters or comprehensive support systems for women facing gender violence, which exacerbates the vulnerability of victims and their families.