Cuban mother Sady R. Companioni, residing in the Lawton neighborhood of Havana, was taken to the Vivac detention center after being arrested by police officers. Her family claims that authorities refused to accept the urgently needed medications for her.
The complaint was made by Cuban activist Tania Tasé, who reported from Berlin that Companioni's parents were also denied visitation and prevented from delivering food to her.
"Sady R. Companioni has been transferred to the VIVAC. Her parents were not allowed to see her or provide her with food, and worse: they refused the essential medications she needs," Tasé wrote on Facebook.
The activist described the incident as a "crime" and noted the distressing situation at home, where Companioni's six-year-old daughter remains. "Her parents are in despair," she added.
In a video shared by fellow activist Yoel Cruz, it was revealed that Companioni was moved to the Vivac around 6:15 PM, urging the public to spread awareness of her plight.
"Sady is yet another victim of Díaz-Canel's dictatorial regime and the Communist Party of Cuba for merely demanding a basic right, which is water," Cruz stated.
Unjust Arrest Sparks Outrage
Before her detention, Companioni recounted that four uniformed police officers, including a Search and Capture agent, arrived at her home without prior notice.
"As expected, my parents were there, along with my six-year-old daughter who became very anxious and started crying," she shared.
The arrest follows weeks of confrontations with local authorities over the lack of essential services. In early August, Companioni reported that her family had been without water and electricity for 15 days, during which her daughter had a fever of 102°F, and an eight-year-old niece suffered from severe dehydration.
Ongoing Struggles with Local Authorities
Just two days later, she accused a local delegate and a police officer of excluding her from receiving water from a state tanker parked in front of her house.
"Everyone can fill up except her because I said so," she was reportedly told. When she attempted to document the incident, she received another warning: "Let her take photos or videos so we can have her arrested."
The day before her arrest, Sady posted a message titled "I AM AFRAID!!", in which she publicly held a local official accountable for any harm that might come to her.
"Being afraid doesn't mean I'll sit idly by and remain silent," she declared.
The Vivac serves as a temporary detention center in Havana. Another detainee, Lumey Guzmán Fernández, was held there in July after criticizing power outages in a video. Guzmán was released on August 27 after posting bail of 7,000 Cuban pesos, though her legal battle continues.
Community Tensions and Rights Violations
Lawton has witnessed several protests in recent months over the crisis in basic services, including pot-banging demonstrations and trash burning in the streets. The State Security has also detained two mothers following a protest.
Companioni's situation is particularly concerning due to reports that she is not being allowed to receive her needed medications, while her young daughter and parents anxiously await news on her condition and legal status.
FAQs about Companioni's Detention and Health Concerns
Why was Sady R. Companioni arrested?
She was detained for demanding access to water, a basic necessity, amidst ongoing shortages in her neighborhood.
Where is Sady R. Companioni being held?
She is currently held at the Vivac detention center in Havana.
What are the concerns regarding her health?
Authorities at the Vivac have reportedly refused to accept the medications she urgently needs, raising concerns for her health.