Josué Moreno, a 20-year-old Cuban and childhood friend of Anna Sofía Benítez Silvente, also known as Anna Bensi, was arrested after showing support at her trial in Havana. Following his arrest, he was fined 600 Cuban pesos, as publicly denounced by his family.
Social Media Sparks Outcry
The initial complaint emerged on social media platforms. Aymee Corominas, Moreno's aunt, posted a photo of her nephew on Facebook, alerting that he was detained hours after accompanying Bensi near the court premises.
"This young man is my nephew Josué, and if we're talking about Anna Bensi, who is prominent on social media, I must speak about him too," Corominas expressed on Facebook.
According to her, Josué spent the afternoon of October 1 supporting Anna Bensi amidst a police operation near the East Havana Municipal Court. "When the cameras were off, he was arrested that night," his family reported.
Family Seeks Answers
At that time, the family was unaware of Josué's whereabouts and sought help to spread the word. Hours later, Corominas updated her Facebook post, confirming his release. She also mentioned an interview with journalist Rolando Nápoles to elaborate on the incident.
In her conversation with Martí Noticias, Corominas revealed that police officers visited Josué’s home after he joined a group supporting Anna Bensi. She emphasized that her nephew did not engage in any violent acts or provocations; he simply stood by his friend.
Upon his release, authorities imposed a 600 CUP fine on Josué, as Corominas explained. However, no official documentation of the fine or any charges has been made public.
A Longstanding Friendship
Josué and Anna Bensi share a long history. Growing up in Alamar, Havana, they attended the same school and have maintained a friendship over the years. This bond motivated Josué to support Bensi on October 1, during a critical moment for her and her mother.
Who is Anna Bensi?
Anna Sofía Benítez Silvente, known online as Anna Bensi, is a Cuban content creator and Christian activist. She has gained attention for her critical views on Cuba’s political, economic, and social issues.
Her legal troubles began after she and her mother, Caridad Silvente, shared a video of an encounter with a Ministry of the Interior agent who delivered a summons to their home. They were charged with "acts against personal and family privacy."
On October 1, the East Havana Municipal Court found both women guilty, sentencing them to two years of restricted freedom. CiberCuba reported on the conviction and the surrounding arrests, surveillance, and restrictions that day.
Wider Repercussions
Josué Moreno's case wasn’t the only one reported during the trial. Many, including religious figures and activists, claimed they faced detentions, surveillance, or other restrictions to prevent them from reaching the court.
Pastor Rolando Fidel Pérez Lora, also known as the Christ Preacher, was detained while attempting to attend the trial. Christian activist David Espinosa Martínez was also arrested.
In a related incident, Anthony Martínez from San Antonio de los Baños received a police summons after supporting Anna Bensi and her mother. CiberCuba covered his summons, highlighting that the officer failed to explain the reason for it.
Ongoing Harassment Alleged by Family
Corominas further disclosed in her interview with Rolando Nápoles that the pressure on Josué did not cease with his release. Authorities reportedly continued to call and harass him.
She claims her nephew remains distressed and worried, interpreting these actions as attempts to intimidate those who publicly show solidarity with government critics. Corominas vowed to continue speaking out against any further actions against her nephew.
Lack of Official Explanation
As of now, Cuban authorities have not provided a legal basis for Josué Moreno's detention or the 600 CUP fine. No formal charges appear to be filed against him.
The absence of official documentation draws a clear line between the family’s allegations and the need for authoritative clarification. Nonetheless, Corominas’ real-time Facebook updates, including her nephew’s photo and calls for assistance, offer a public record of the detention, subsequent release, and ongoing pressures.
Understanding the Legal and Social Context in Cuba
What led to Josué Moreno's arrest?
Josué Moreno was arrested after attending a trial to support his friend, Anna Bensi, in Havana. His family claims he did not engage in any unlawful activities during the event.
Who is Anna Bensi?
Anna Bensi is a Cuban content creator and Christian activist known for her critical stance on Cuba's political and social issues.
What charges were Anna Bensi and her mother facing?
Anna Bensi and her mother were charged with "acts against personal and family privacy" after releasing a video involving a Ministry of the Interior agent.