Anna Sofía Benítez Silvente, better known as Anna Bensi, arrived at the Havana courthouse on Thursday accompanied by her mother, Caridad Silvente. Crowds cheered and expressed support as they made their way to face trial. Meanwhile, Bensi spoke out against the extensive police operation that had been in place since she left her home.
"Do not be afraid, we are with you. You have done nothing wrong, you only speak the truth," supporters were heard shouting as they gathered around.
Bensi expressed feelings of "powerlessness" due to the police presence that had surrounded their neighborhood from the early hours of the morning and continued throughout their journey to the courthouse.
"We feel helpless because ever since we woke up today, there's been a police deployment all over the area. Patrol cars, officers, dozens of plainclothes police," the young activist stated.
She also noted the presence of undercover agents near the courthouse and reported they were monitored throughout their journey.
"As we were traveling, it felt like we were being treated like criminals, being watched the entire way," she remarked.
Prior to the judicial hearing, there were reports of arrests and movement restrictions imposed on those who intended to accompany Bensi and Silvente.
Among those reportedly detained were Christian activist David Espinosa Martínez and pastor Rolando Fidel Pérez Lora, known as the "Herald of Christ."
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Understanding the Situation Surrounding Anna Bensi
Who is Anna Bensi?
Anna Bensi is the public name of Anna Sofía Benítez Silvente, a young activist facing trial in Havana alongside her mother, Caridad Silvente.
What did Anna Bensi denounce?
Anna Bensi denounced the heavy police presence and surveillance that followed her from her home to the courthouse, which made her feel powerless.
Who else was reportedly detained related to this case?
Christian activist David Espinosa Martínez and pastor Rolando Fidel Pérez Lora, known as the "Herald of Christ," were among those reportedly detained.