Case descriptions of protestors detained by the Cuban government, July 2021

All case descriptions are based on direct accounts by the victim, a relative, or their lawyer. Whenever possible, Human Rights Watch also reviewed case files and documentation on fines levied against protesters and verified photos and videos that corroborated the testimonies. The cases Human Rights Watch documented represent only a fraction of the total number of human rights violations committed by the Cuban government during the July 2021 demonstrations.

 

Human Rights Watch research indicates that the July demonstrations were overwhelmingly peaceful. In the 130 cases documented by Human Rights Watch, Cuban authorities accused only a handful of detainees of engaging in violence, most often by throwing rocks during protests. In most of these cases, the detainees or their families denied that they engaged in violence, and in all of them the criminal prosecutions were marred by serious due process violations and the sentences sought or imposed by Cuban authorities against the detainees appear excessive.

 

 

The descriptions of the cases were last updated on September 30, 2021.

 

 

Victim

Date of arrest

Place

Status

Case description

Andy Dunier García, 23, unemployed

July 11

Santa Clara, Villa Clara

In detention

Several officers detained him violently during a peaceful demonstration. He was held incommunicado until July 19 when his mother was allowed to see him briefly. He is in pretrial detention on charges of “public disorder”, “contempt” and “assault.”

Ángel Luis Fariñas, 25, self-employed

July 11

Pinar del Río city, Pinar del Río

Released

Several officers detained him during a peaceful demonstration. He was held incommunicado, then sent to pretrial house arrest on July 24. On September 6, he paid a fine of 3,000 Cuban pesos (US$120), and an officer said the criminal case against him would be closed.

Anyelo Troya, 25, film producer

July 11

Havana city, Havana

Released

Four officers detained him violently during a peaceful demonstration. On July 20, he was put on trial without a lawyer and sentenced to a year in prison for “public disorder.” An appeals court acquitted him on August 6.

Ariel González Falcón, 21, student

July 11

Havana city, Havana

Released

Several police and state security agents detained him violently during a peaceful demonstration. He was held incommunicado in overcrowded and unsanitary conditions until his release on July 17.

Armando Abascal Serrano, 56, member of the opposition group Pedro Luis Boitel Party for Democracy

July 11

Jovellanos, Matanzas

Released

A state security officer detained him during a peaceful demonstration. He was held incommunicado, then sent to pretrial house arrest on August 27. On September 6, he paid a fine of 1,000 Cuban pesos (US$40), and an officer said the criminal case against him would be closed.

Carlos Raimundo Rodríguez Becerra, 51, member of the opposition group Independent and Democratic Cuba (CID)

July 11

Santa Clara, Villa Clara

Released

Two state security officers detained him when he was heading to a demonstration. He was held incommunicado and given a written “notice” accusing him of the crime of “public disorder.” He was released without charges on July 14.

Celina Osorio Claro, 52, member of the opposition groups Cuban Patriotic Union (UNPACU) and Cuba Decide

July 11

Guantánamo city, Guantánamo

Released

Two officers detained her violently as she was participating in a peaceful protest. She was forced to strip and squat naked in detention. She was also interrogated repeatedly about her participation in the protests. Officers released her without charges on July 15.

Dailin Eugenia Betancourt Pérez, 44, homemaker 

July 11

Havana city, Havana

House arrest

Officers detained her during a peaceful demonstration on July 11. She was held incommunicado until she was sent to house arrest on July 23. She remains under investigation for “public disorder,” and “contempt.”

Daniel Triana, 24, actor

July 11

Havana city, Havana

House arrest

Four officers detained him, along with other artists and activists, when they protested peacefully in front of the state-owned Cuban Institute of Radio and TV. Officers forced him and others into a truck, where some officers kicked and punched him. In prison, an officer punched him in the face. He was released the next day but remains under investigation for “public disorder.”

Daniela Cecilia Rojo Varona, 25, homemaker

July 11

Guanabacoa, Havana

Released

Government supporters forced her into a police car as she was participating in a demonstration. Police officers then drove her to a station. She was held incommunicado in an unsanitary cell under charges of “public disorder,” and “spreading an epidemic.” On August 3, she was released on bail.

Dario Quiñonez (pseudonym), 19

July 11

Havana city, Havana

Serving community service

Several officers arrested him as he was observing a demonstration. He was held in a cell with no ventilation or natural light, where he lost track of time and was repeatedly interrogated about his participation in the protest. On July 20, he was put on trial without a defense lawyer and sentenced to 10 months in prison for allegedly throwing rocks during the protest. On August 6, a higher court changed the sentence to eight months of community service and a fine.

Dashiel Alfonso Catá, 26, bartender

July 11

Havana city, Havana

In detention

State security officers detained him when he was passing by a demonstration. He was held incommunicado and, on July 20, put on trial. His lawyer was only able to speak with him for a few minutes before the hearing. He was sentenced to 10 months in prison for “public disorder.” On August 6, a higher court upheld the conviction.

Dayane Victoria Sosa, 27, economist 

July 11

Camagüey city, Camagüey

Released

Officers detained her and her husband Jaime Luis Mantilla during a peaceful demonstration. She was accused of “public disorder” and held incommunicado until she was sent to house arrest on July 14. In late-August, she paid a 200 Cuban peso (US$8) fine, and an officer said the criminal case against her would be closed.

Jaime Luis Mantilla, 25, student

July 11

Camagüey city, Camagüey

Released

Officers detained him and his wife, Dayane Victoria Sosa, during a peaceful demonstration. He was accused of “public disorder” and held incommunicado until he was sent to house arrest on July 14. In late-August, he was required to pay a fine of 200 Cuban pesos (US$8), and an officer said the criminal case against him would be closed.

Dayanis Salazar Pérez, 20, member of the opposition group Autonomous Pinero Party

July 11

Nueva Gerona, Isle of Youth

Released

Members of a rapid response brigade detained her violently during a peaceful demonstration. She was held incommunicado in a cell that only had running water 10 minutes per day. On July 14, a police officer told her that she had been detained for “public disorder” and released her. She was not informed whether she is still under investigation.

Dixan Gainza Moré, 35, journalist

July 11

Camagüey city, Camagüey

In detention

Police and state security officers arrested him in his home a few hours after he participated in demonstrations. He remains in pretrial detention on charges of “public disorder.” His family has only been able to see him once.

Duniesky Alemán García, 35, self-employed

July 11

Santa Clara, Villa Clara

Released

Several state security officers detained him violently when he was observing a protest. He was only allowed to call his family nine days after his arrest and was repeatedly interrogated, often in the middle of the night, about his participation in the demonstration. On August 24, he was required to pay a 2,000 peso (US$80) fine, and an officer told him that the criminal case against him would be closed.

Eliezer Siezma Diago, 40, self-employed

July 11

Havana city, Havana

In detention

Officers detained him during a peaceful demonstration. He has been held incommunicado since the arrest and is under investigation for “resistance,” “contempt,” and “public disorder.”

Enrique Mustalier Sosa, 38, bricklayer and member of the opposition group Cuban Patriotic Union (UNPACU)

July 11

Guantánamo city, Guantánamo

In detention

Two state security officers detained him during a peaceful demonstration. He was held incommunicado until August 6, when he was allowed to call his family. He is in pretrial detention on charges of “public disorder.”

Fernando González Herrera, 33, unemployed

July 11

Ciego de Ávila city, Ciego de Ávila

In detention

State security officers arrested him at his home, in the middle of the night, hours after he participated in a protest. They did not show an arrest warrant. He was undressed at the time of his arrest, and police did not allow him to put on clothing before they took him to the station. He has been held incommunicado since his arrest.

Francisco Alfaro Diéguez Villegas, 56, leading figure in the opposition group Popular Movement 13

July 11

Nueva Gerona, Isle of Youth

In detention

State security officers detained him during a peaceful demonstration. He was held incommunicado until August 4, when officers allowed him to call his family, and remains in pretrial detention on charges of “public disorder.”

Francisco Rangel Manzano, 59, member of the opposition Party for Democracy

 

July 11

Colón, Matanzas

In detention

Officers detained him during a peaceful demonstration. He is in pretrial detention on charges of “public disorder.” In September, a prosecutor requested a seven-year prison sentence for “public disorder,” and “contempt.”

Gabriela Zequeira Hernández, 17, student 

July 11

San Miguel de Padrón, Havana

House arrest

Several “Black Beret” officers detained her as she walked past a demonstration. She was held incommunicado, repeatedly interrogated in the middle of the night. and forced to strip and squat naked. On July 22, she was sentenced to eight months in prison. She was only able to see her lawyer for a few minutes before the trial. On August 17, a higher court upheld the conviction but allowed her to serve her sentence under house arrest.

Geosvany Pérez Carmenate, 30, cook

July 11

Havana city, Havana

Released

Several police officers detained him during a peaceful demonstration. He was held incommunicado until his release on July 22. He had to pay a 2,000 Cuban peso (US$80) fine.

Gretel Medina Mendieta, 40, filmmaker 

July 11

Havana city, Havana

House arrest

Two officers detained her and an art curator Solveig Font, as they left a peaceful demonstration in front of the state-owned Cuban Institute of Radio and TV. Officers interrogated her in detention about her participation in the protest. She was sent to house arrest the next day and remains under investigation for “public disorder.”

Solveig Font Martínez, 44, art curator and member of the 27N Movement 

July 11

Havana city, Havana

House arrest

Two officers detained her and filmmaker Gretel Medina as they left a peaceful demonstration in front of the state-owned Cuban Institute of Radio and TV. In detention, officers interrogated her about her participation in the protest. She was released the next day but remains under investigation for “public disorder.”

Héctor Luis Valdés, 30, journalist

July 11

Havana city, Havana

Released

Several police and state security agents detained him when he was covering a demonstration. He was held in an overcrowded cell, interrogated repeatedly about his participation in the protest, and given a written “notice” for the crime of “incitement to commit crimes.” Officers released him on July 12. They did not inform him that he was under house arrest, but, for several weeks, until September 15, some officers were constantly stationed at the entrance of his house, preventing him from leaving.

Henry Constantín Ferreiro, 37, director of the independent newspaper Hora de Cuba

July 11

Camagüey city, Camagüey

Released

Four officers detained him when he was heading with his partner, Neife Rigau, to a demonstration. He was held incommunicado in several cells that had little ventilation, light, or access to water, and interrogated repeatedly about his participation in the protests. On July 13, officers searched his home and confiscated his computer and other devices he used for work. On July 21, he was sent to pretrial house arrest on charges of “public disorder.” On August 23, he paid a fine of 1,000 Cuban pesos (US$40), and an officer said the criminal case against him would be closed.

Neife Rigau, 22, photographer 

July 11

Camagüey city, Camagüey

Released

Two officers detained her violently as she was heading with her partner, Henry Constantín, to a demonstration. She was held incommunicado until July 20 and subjected to repeated interrogations about her personal life and her participation in the protests. On July 21, she was sent to pretrial house arrest on charges of “public disorder.” On August 23, she paid a 1,000 Cuban peso (US$40) fine, and an officer said the criminal case against her would be closed.

Iris María Mariño García, 31, actress and journalist 

July 11

Camagüey city, Camagüey

Released

A state security officer and two police officers detained her violently during a peaceful demonstration. On July 21, she was sent to pretrial house arrest on charges of “public disorder.” On July 23, she paid a fine of 1,000 Cuban pesos (US$40), and an officer said the criminal case against her would be closed.

Isaac Blanco Rodríguez, 31, self-employed

July 11

Cienfuegos city, Cienfuegos

Released

A state security officer detained him violently during a peaceful demonstration. He was charged with “public disorder,” held incommunicado in a cell that had no natural light, and interrogated repeatedly, often in the middle of the night. On July 27, he was sent to pretrial house arrest. On July 29, he paid a fine of 3,000 Cuban pesos (US$120), and an officer said the criminal case against him would be closed.

Jandro Lázaro Díaz Cairo, 32, construction worker

 

July 11

Havana city, Havana

House arrest

Several police officers detained him violently during a peaceful demonstration. He was held incommunicado until he was sent to pretrial house arrest on August 10.

Jéremy Blanco, 37, Evangelical pastor

July 11

Matanzas city, Matanzas

Released

Two state security officers detained him during a peaceful demonstration. He was held incommunicado in an unsanitary cell and repeatedly interrogated about his participation in the protest. Officers threatened to retaliate against his family if he did not provide information on the protest. On July 24, he was sent to house arrest pending a trial for “public disorder.” On September 1, he was required to pay an 800 Cuban peso (US$33) fine, and an officer said the criminal case against him would be closed.

Joel Díaz Hernández, 44, cook

July 11

San Antonio de los Baños, Artemisa

In detention

Police officers detained him violently during a peaceful protest on July 11. He was held incommunicado until, on August 10, officers allowed him to call his wife. He remains in pretrial detention on charges of “public disorder.”

José Castor Álvarez de Vesa, 50, Catholic priest

July 11

Camagüey city, Camagüey

Restrictions on liberty

A state security agent or a member of a rapid response brigade beat him with a baseball bat during a demonstration. He was detained, interrogated repeatedly and released the next day with a pending investigation for “instigation to commit crimes.” An officer told him he could not leave his municipality.

José Daniel Ferrer Cantillo, 18, member of the opposition group Cuban Patriotic Union (UNPACU)

July 11

Santiago de Cuba city, Santiago de Cuba

Released

Officers detained him and his father, José Daniel Ferrer García, as they headed to a demonstration. He was held incommunicado until his release on July 17 and remains under investigation for “public disorder.”

José Daniel Ferrer García, 51, opposition leader, general coordinator of the opposition group Cuban Patriotic Union (UNPACU)

July 11

Santiago de Cuba city, Santiago de Cuba

In detention

Officers detained him and his son José Daniel Ferrer Cantillo as they were heading to a demonstration. A prosecutor charged him with “public disorder” and sent him to pretrial detention. In August, a court ruled that he would serve more than four years in prison in connection with a 2020 conviction that the United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention has deemed arbitrary.

José Manuel Masabó Urquiza, 21, postal worker

July 11

Havana city, Havana

In detention

State security officers detained him and his brother Raylis Fernando Masabó Urquiza during a peaceful demonstration. On July 20, they were both put on trial and sentenced to 10 months in prison for “public disorder.” No relative was allowed in the hearing.

Raylis Fernando Masabó Urquiza, 28, blacksmith

July 11

Havana city, Havana

In detention

State security officers detained him and his brother, José Manuel Masabó Urquiza, during a peaceful demonstration. On July 20, they were both put on trial without a lawyer and sentenced to 10 months in prison for “public disorder.” No relative was allowed in the hearing.

Juan Carlos Calahorra, 43, audiovisual producer, scriptwriter and publisher

July 11

Havana city, Havana

Restrictions on liberty

A state security agent detained him as he left a peaceful demonstration in front of the state-owned Cuban Institute of Radio and TV. Officers detained him, refused his request to make a call, and interrogated him about his participation in the protest. He was released the next day but remains under investigation for “public disorder.” An officer told him he could not leave his province.

Juan Elias Navarro, 60, activist

July 11

Santiago de Cuba city, Santiago de Cuba

Released

A police officer punched him in the chest and detained him violently during a peaceful demonstration. In detention, officers refused his request to make a call and interrogated him about his participation in the protest. He was charged with “public disorder,” “instigation to commit crimes,” and “spreading an epidemic” for allegedly throwing a rock during the demonstrations. On July 31, he was sent to house arrest. In early August, he was fined 1,000 Cuban pesos (US$40), and an officer said the case would be closed.

Juan Luis Sánchez, 37, unemployed

July 11

Nueva Gerona, Isle of Youth

In detention

A police officer punched him when he tried to defend a protester who was being beaten. Sánchez hit the officer back. Several officers detained him and beat him in a police car and in a police station. He was held incommunicado until July 21, when he was able to call his family. He is under investigation for “assault.”

Juan Raúl del Río Noguez, 75

July 11

Havana city, Havana

House arrest

Two agents arrested him during a peaceful demonstration. He was held in an overcrowded cell without daylight where he lost track of time and was repeatedly interrogated about his participation in the protest. On July 20, he was put on trial without a defense lawyer and sentenced to a year under house arrest for “public disorder.” His family was not aware that the trial was taking place.

Ana Laura Parra González, 22, unemployed

July 11

Matanzas city, Matanzas

Released

Officers detained her and her brother Michel as they were demonstrating peacefully. She was held incommunicado in a dark, poorly ventilated cell, and repeatedly interrogated about her participation in the protest. She was charged with “public disorder” and, on August 6, sent to pretrial house arrest. On September 20, she was fined 1,000 Cuban pesos (US$40), and an officer said the criminal case against her would be closed.

Michel Parra González, 20, hospital employee

July 11

Matanzas city, Matanzas

Released

Officers detained him and his sister Laura as they were demonstrating peacefully. He was held incommunicado until his release. Eight officers beat him in detention. He was charged with “public disorder” and, on August 2, sent to pretrial house arrest. On September 15, he was fined 1,000 Cuban pesos (US$40), and an officer said the criminal case against him would be closed.

Lázaro Díaz Sánchez, 45, electrician

July 11

Colón, Matanzas

Released

One officer punched him in the ribs and detained him violently during a peaceful demonstration. In detention, officers refused his request to make a call and interrogated him about his participation in the protest. Officers released him on July 15, saying he was under investigation for “public disorder.”

Leonardo Fernández Otaño, 29, professor of history and PhD student

July 11

Havana city, Havana

House arrest

Five officers detained him, along with other artists and activists, when they protested peacefully in front of the state-owned Cuban Institute of Radio and TV. Officers interrogated him for six hours and threatened to expel him from his teaching job and PhD program. He was held for three hours, handcuffed, in what he called an “isolation cell,” for trying to defend a detainee who was being beaten. On July 12, he was sent to house arrest, pending a trial for “public disorder.”

Loisel Castro Herrera, 30, home appliances repairperson

July 11

Nueva Gerona, Isle of Youth

Released

Two state security officers detained him violently during a demonstration. He was held incommunicado until officers allowed him to call his family on August 7. On August 12, he was released on bail on charges of “public disorder.” On August 13, he paid a 3,000 Cuban peso (US$120) fine, and an officer said his case would be closed.

Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara, 33, artist, leader of the San Isidro movement

July 11

Havana city, Havana

In detention

Officers detained him during a peaceful demonstration on July 11. He is currently under investigation for “public disorder,” “instigation to commit crimes,” and “contempt” in connection with a peaceful demonstration on April 4.

Magdelys Curbelo Anglés, 22, culinary student 

July 11

Havana city, Havana

Restrictions on liberty

Police grabbed her by the hair, detaining her when she was participating in a peaceful demonstration. She was held in an overcrowded, poorly ventilated cell with 11 other detainees. Officers repeatedly woke her at night for interrogations and forced her to record a video saying that she was being held in appropriate conditions. On July 22, she was sentenced to 10 months in prison for “public disorder.” On August 10, an appeals court allowed her to serve the sentence outside prison under “restrictions on movement,” including a prohibition on leaving her province and a requirement to call the police station every month.

Martha de los Ángeles Pérez Arias, 52, member of opposition group Autonomous Pinero Party 

July 11

Nueva Gerona, Isle of Youth

Released

Two state security agents detained her during a demonstration. She was held incommunicado and repeatedly interrogated about her participation in the protest. Officers threatened to harm her family. On July 29, she was released on bail and remains under criminal investigation.

Maykel González, 37, journalist

July 11

Havana city, Havana

House arrest

Several police officers detained him violently when he left a peaceful demonstration. He was held in an unsanitary cell and interrogated about his participation in the protests. On July 12, he was sent to house arrest. He remains under investigation for “public disorder.”

Nemed Ramón Álvarez Pérez, 31, self-employed

July 11

Havana city, Havana

In detention

Two state security agents detained him violently during a peaceful demonstration. On July 22, he was put on trial. His lawyer was only able to speak with him for a few minutes before the hearing. He was sentenced to 8 months in prison for “public disorder.” On August 10, a higher court upheld the conviction.

Niober García Fournier, 42, journalist

July 11

Guatánamo city, Guatánamo

Restrictions on liberty

Two officers detained him as he was heading to a demonstration. Officers refused his request to make a call and gave him a written “notice,” saying that he was being charged with “public disorder” and “spreading an epidemic” and forbidden from joining demonstrations. He was released without charges on July 14 after paying a 3,000 Cuban peso (US$120) fine.

Orelvys Cabrera Sotolongo, 36, journalist

July 11

Cárdenas, Matanzas

Released

A state security officer arrested him when he was leaving a demonstration that had turned violent. He was held in an overcrowded, poorly ventilated, dark cell that only had water in the morning. He was held incommunicado for 10 days and repeatedly interrogated about his participation in the protest. On August 17, he was sent to house arrest on charges of “public disorder.” On September 2, he paid a 1,000 Cuban peso (US$40) fine, and an officer said the criminal case against him would be closed.

Ovel Barzagas Claro, 39, member of opposition group Autonomous Pinero Party

July 11

Nueva Gerona, Isle of Youth

Released

Members of a rapid response brigade detained him during a demonstration. He was held largely incommunicado until, on August 12, he was released on bail on charges of “public disorder.” The next day, he paid a 3,000 Cuban peso (US$120) fine, and an officer said the criminal case against him would be closed.

Ramón Salazar Infante, 64, president of the opposition group Autonomous Pinero Party

July 11

Nueva Gerona, Isle of Youth

Released

Members of a rapid response brigade and state security agents detained him during a peaceful demonstration. He was held incommunicado until July 20, when officers allowed him to call his family. Officers repeatedly woke him at night for interrogations and threatened to jail his family members. He was released on bail on September 7 and remains under investigation.

Randy Arteaga, 32, rap singer

July 11

Santa Clara, Villa Clara

In detention

Officers detained him during a peaceful demonstration. He was held incommunicado until July 19, when his mother was allowed to see him briefly. He is in pretrial detention on charges of “resistance.”

Raúl Prado, 35, photography director

July 11

Havana city, Havana

Restrictions on liberty

Officers detained him violently, along with other artists and activists, when they protested peacefully in front of the state-owned Cuban Institute of Radio and TV. Officers refused his request in detention to make a call and interrogated him about his participation in the protest. He was released later that day but remains under investigation for “public disorder.” An officer told him he could not leave the country.

Reinier Díaz Vega, 30, activist, member of the 27N movement

July 11

Havana city, Havana

House arrest

Officers detained him and other artists and activists during a peaceful protest in front of the state-owned Cuban Institute of Radio and TV. Officers refused his request in detention to make a call. He was sent to house arrest the next day and remains under investigation for “public disorder.”

Rolando Remedios Sánchez, 25, student

July 11

Havana city, Havana

Restrictions on liberty

A state security officer detained him violently during a peaceful demonstration. He was held incommunicado for six days, beaten, and forced to squat naked. He was released on August 16 but is required to call a police station every month. He remains under criminal investigation.

Rolando Rodríguez Lobaina, 52, journalist and director of Palenque Visión

July 11

Guatánamo city, Guatánamo

Restrictions on liberty

Several state security officers arrested him as he headed to a protest. In detention, he was forced to squat naked, held in an overcrowded and unsanitary cell, and repeatedly interrogated about his participation in the protests. He was released on July 14, but the next day an officer summoned him to a police station, where officers told him that he was not allowed to leave the province. He remains under investigation.

Taymara Brown Samon, 33, homemaker 

July 11

Havana city, Havana

In detention

A police officer arrested her violently during a peaceful demonstration. On July 23, she was put on trial without having access to a lawyer and sentenced to one year in prison for “contempt” and “public disorder.” She was held incommunicado until officers allowed her to call her family on August 30.

Wilber Álvarez Salvat, 31, doctor

July 11

Contramaestre, Santiago de Cuba

Released

Several state security and police officers detained him violently during a demonstration. He was held in a cell without access to daylight and incommunicado until on July 20 officers allowed his lawyer to see him. On August 14, he was released after signing a document promising he would not meet again with “counterrevolutionaries.” On August 15, he was required to a pay a 2,000 Cuban peso (US$80) fine for the crime of “spreading an epidemic,” and an officer said the criminal case against him would be closed.

Yarbelis Escobar Rodriguez, 38, homemaker, supporter of the opposition group Autonomous Pinero Party 

July 11

Nueva Gerona, Isle of Youth

Released

Two state security agents detained her during a demonstration. In detention, she was forced to strip for an inspection and was subjected to repeated interrogations about her participation in the protest. On July 28, she was released on bail on charges of “public disorder.” On August 13, she paid a 3,000 Cuban peso (US$120) fine, and an officer said the criminal case against her would be closed.

Yarian Emanuel Sierra Madrigal, 29, Evangelical pastor

July 11

Matanzas city, Matanzas

Released

A state security officer detained him during a demonstration. He was accused of “public disorder” and held incommunicado in a cell that had no daylight or ventilation. Officers threatened to harm his family if he did not confess to organizing the protest. On September 1, he paid a 1,000 Cuban peso (US$40) fine, and an officer said the criminal case against him would be closed.

Yosvany Sepúlveda Martínez, 42, journalist

July 11

Camagüey city, Camagüey

House arrest

A state security officer detained him violently during a peaceful demonstration. He was held incommunicado until he was sent to house arrest on July 15. He remains under investigation for “public disorder.”

Yunior Villarejo Estévez, 30, unemployed

July 11

Havana city, Havana

In detention

He was detained violently during a peaceful demonstration. On July 20, he was put on trial without a defense lawyer and sentenced to 10 months in prison for “public disorder.” His family was not aware that the trial was taking place. On August 10, a higher court upheld the conviction.

Abel González Lescay, 22, music student

July 12

Bejucal, Mayabeque

House arrest

More than 20 police and state security members appeared at his house a day after he participated in demonstrations. They took him, naked, into a police car. He was held incommunicado for six days and then sent to pretrial house arrest on charges of “public disorder.”

Amaury Pacheco del Monte, 52, poet, member of the San Isidro movement

July 12

Havana city, Havana

Released

Police officers detained him and Manuel Cuesta Morúa as they headed by bus to a demonstration in downtown Havana. Officers refused their requests to make a call and gave them a written “notice,” saying that if they continued joining demonstrations, they would be accused of supporting violent protesters. He was released later that day. His home internet connection did not work for several days after the arrest and two officers repeatedly watched his home.

Manuel Cuesta Morúa, 58, opposition activist

July 12

Havana city, Havana

Released

Police officers detained him and Amaury Pacheco as they headed by bus to a demonstration in downtown Havana. Officers refused their requests to make a call and gave them a written “notice,” saying that if they continued joining demonstrations, they would be accused of supporting violent protesters. He was released later that day. His home internet connection did not work for several days after the arrest.

Angélica Garrido Rodríguez, 41, homemaker 

July 12

Quivicán, Mayabeque

In detention

Several police and state security officers detained her and her sister María Cristina a day after they participated in demonstrations. Angélica told her family that she suffered “psychological abuse” in detention. She remains in pretrial detention accused of several crimes in connection with her participation in the protests and alleged resistance to arrest.

María Cristina Garrido Rodríguez, 39, activist for the Cuban Republican Party 

July 12

Quivicán, Mayabeque

In detention

Several police and state security agents detained her and her sister Angélica a day after they participated in a protest. An officer punched her in the legs and arms in detention and wakened her repeatedly in the early morning forcing her to shout “Long live Fidel!” and “Long live the revolution!” She was sent to a “punishment cell,” which was dark and lacked water or sanitation facilities when she refused. She is in pretrial detention, accused of several crimes in connection with her participation in the protests.

Aníbal Yasiel Palau, 25, machinist

July 12

Güines, Mayabeque

In detention

Several police and state security agents detained him violently during a peaceful demonstration. He is in pretrial detention on charges of “assault” and “public disorder.”

Arturo Valentín Rivero, 48, member of the opposition group Cuban Patriotic Union (UNPACU)

 

July 12

Batabanó, Mayabeque

In detention

Two “Black Beret” officers detained him violently during a protest after he burned a flag that said, “Down with Díaz-Canel.” He was only allowed to call his family six days after his arrest. He is in pretrial detention on charges of “public disorder” and “spreading an epidemic.”

Camila Acosta, 28, journalist 

July 12

Havana city, Havana

House arrest

Several police and state security officers arrested her as she left her home. Officers told her in detention that she was under investigation for “public disorder” and “instigation to commit crimes” in connection with her coverage of the July 11 protests. She was held incommunicado in an overcrowded and unsanitary cell, then sent to pretrial house arrest on July 17.

Humberto Luciano Galindo Mora, 58, member of the opposition group Cuban Patriotic Union (UNPACU)

July 12

Camagüey city, Camagüey

Released

Police and state security officers detained him for participating in the July 11 protests and charged him with “public disorder.” He was sent to pretrial house arrest on August 14. Ten days later, he was released after paying a 500 Cuban peso (US$20) fine, and an officer said the criminal case against him would be closed.

Ibrahim Domínguez Aguilar, 32, singer

July 12

Contramaestre, Santiago de Cuba

In detention

Several state security officers detained him a day after he called on people in Contramaestre to protest the government. He was held incommunicado until July 23, when an officer allowed him to call his family. He is in pretrial detention on charges of “assault,” “spreading an epidemic,” and “public disorder.”

Javier Sánchez, 35, singer and musician

July 12

Camagüey city, Camagüey

Released

Two officers detained him violently during a peaceful demonstration. In detention, officers refused his requests to make a call. On July 16, he was sent to house arrest pending a trial for “public disorder.” A state security agent summoned him, on July 17, to a police station, where he was fined 2,000 Cuban pesos (roughly US$80), and an officer said the criminal case against him would be closed.

Jose Luis Acosta Cortellán, 42, activist

July 12

Camagüey city, Camagüey

Released

Two state security officers detained him and his wife, Marisol Peña Cobas, violently at their home. The officers did not show an arrest warrant. He was held incommunicado until, on July 16, officers allowed him to call his family. On August 14, he was sent to pretrial house arrest on charges of “public disorder” for participating in a July 11 protest. On August 23, he was required to pay a 500 peso (US$20) fine, and an officer said that the criminal case against him would be closed.

Marisol Peña Cobas, 44, activist

July 12

Camagüey city, Camagüey

Released

Two state security officers detained her and her husband, Jose Luis Cortellán, violently at their home. The officers did not show an arrest warrant. She was held incommunicado until July 16 when officers allowed her to call her family. On August 14, she was sent to pretrial house arrest on charges of “public disorder” for participating in a July 11 protest. On August 23, she was required to pay a 500 Cuban peso (US$20) fine, and an officer said that the criminal case against her would be closed.

Mario Miguel García Piña, 38, singer

July 12

Bejucal, Mayabeque

Released

Three state security officers arrested him on July 12. He was held in an unsanitary cell and interrogated repeatedly about whether he had organized a peaceful protest the day before. On July 25, he was sent to house arrest and, days later, released after paying a 5,000 Cuban peso (US$200) fine.

Maykel Puig Bergolla, 41, road maintenance worker

July 12

Güines, Mayabeque

In detention

Two state security officers detained him on the street. He was held incommunicado until, on July 30, officers allowed him to call his family. He remains in pretrial detention on charges of “public disorder.” Officers accuse him of throwing rocks during a protest, which his family denies.

Osain Denis Trujillo, 41, human rights activist

July 12

Cárdenas, Matanzas

In detention

Several “Black Beret” officers arrested him at his home a day after he participated in a protest. He told his lawyer, who visited him, that he had been beaten “until he fainted.” He is under investigation for “public disorder.”

Richard Zamora Brito, 28, artist

July 12

Colón, Matanzas

Released

Several police and state security agents arrested him at his home a day after he participated in demonstrations. Officers did not show an arrest warrant or explain why he was being detained. On August 20, he was released on bail.

Emiyoslan Román Rodríguez, 18, student

July 13

Arroyo Naranjo, Havana

In detention

On July 13, agents forcibly went into his home, detaining him as well as his brothers Yosney and Mackyani and their cousin, Odlanier Santiago Rodríguez. The officers did not show a warrant. He is under investigation for “public disorder” in connection with his participation in a July 11 protest and has not been able to receive visits from his family. Their lawyer has only been able to see him once.

Mackyani Román Rodríguez, 25, student

July 13

Arroyo Naranjo, Havana

In detention

On July 13, agents forcibly went into her home, detaining her as well as her brothers Yosney and Emiyoslan and their cousin, Odlanier Santiago Rodríguez. The officers did not show a warrant. She is under investigation for “public disorder” in connection with her participation in a July 11 protest and has not been able to receive visits from her family. Their lawyer has only been able to see her once.

Odlanier Santiago Rodríguez, 22

July 13

Arroyo Naranjo, Havana

Released

On July 13, agents forcibly went into his home, detaining him as well as his cousins Yosney, Emiyoslan and Mackyani Román Rodríguez. Odlanier was held in an overcrowded cell that had no ventilation or light. He was interrogated five times about his role in the protests and charged with several crimes. On August 4, he was released on bail. On August 30, he paid a 2,000 Cuban peso (US$80) fine, and an officer said the criminal case against him would be closed.

Yosney Román Rodríguez, 25, self-employed

July 13

Arroyo Naranjo, Havana

In detention

On July 13, agents forcibly went into his home, detaining him as well as his brothers Emiyoslan and Mackyani and their cousin Odlanier Santiago Rodríguez. The officers did not show a warrant. He is under investigation for “public disorder” in connection with his participation in a July 11 protest and has not been able to receive visits from his family. Their lawyer has only been able to see them once.

Alexander Rodríguez Cárdenas, 47, critic of the government

July 13

Sagua La Grande, Villa Clara

In detention

On July 11, several police appeared at his home saying he could not participate in the demonstrations. Even though he did not attend the demonstrations, two days later, several police and state security officers appeared at his home again and detained him. On July 20, he was sentenced to a year in prison for “contempt” and “disobedience.” His lawyer was allowed to speak with him for 10 minutes before the hearing.

Ediyersi Santana, 36, member of the opposition group Cuban Patriotic Union (UNPACU)

July 13

Camagüey city, Camagüey

Released

Four state security officers arrested him at the entrance of his home two days after he participated in a July 11 protest. Officers interrogated him repeatedly and threatened to kill him. On August 15, he was sent to pretrial house arrest on charges of “public disorder.” An officer told him that he would be imprisoned again if he participated in protests. On August 24, he was required to pay a 500 peso (US$20) fine, and an officer said that the criminal case against him would be closed.

Enix Berrío Sardá, 55, economist, member of the San Isidro movement

July 13

Havana city, Havana

Released

Several military officers detained him as he left a meeting in downtown Havana. A day earlier, a state security agent had told him he would be subject to “restrictions on movement,” in an apparent effort to prevent him from joining the demonstrations. He was released on July 15 and remains under criminal investigation for “instigation to commit crimes.”

Ian Richard Hernández Mayea, 28, self-employed

July 13

Quivicán, Mayabeque

Released

Officers detained him when he was walking in a street in Quivicán. They did not show an arrest warrant. He was held incommunicado in an overcrowded cell and interrogated about his participation in the July 11 protest. On July 31, he was released on bail. On August 11, an officer told him that the case against him had been closed.

Liván Lázaro Hernández Miranda, 24, self-employed

July 13

Bauta, Artemisa

In detention

Police officers detained him and his father, Liván Hernández Lago, accusing them of hitting a police officer during a July 11 protest. A prosecutor has requested a four-year prison sentence for “public disorder” and “contempt.” His family denies that he hit any police officers.

Liván Hernández Lago, 46, self-employed

July 13

Bauta, Artemisa

In detention

Police officers detained him and his son Liván Lázaro Hernández Miranda, accusing them of hitting a police officer during a July 11 protest. A prosecutor has requested a six-year prison sentence for “public disorder,” “assault,” and “contempt.” His family says that Hernández Lago only tried to defend a protester who was being beaten by an officer and that Hernández Lago had a tussle with the officer after the officer took the flip flop he was wearing.

Andriu López Fragoza, 28, unemployed

July 14

Arroyo Naranjo, Havana

In detention

Police and state security officers arrested him at his home in the middle of the night. They did not show an arrest warrant. Officers told his family that he was under investigation for “public disorder” and “contempt,” in apparent connection with his participation in a July 11 protest.

Juan Martín Chávez Pérez, 21, unemployed

July 14

Sagua La Grande, Villa Clara

Released

Several state security officers arrested him at his home, accusing him of participating in a July 13 protest. He was held incommunicado for ten days. On August 30, he paid a 3,000 Cuban peso (US$120) fine, and an officer said the criminal case against him would be closed.

Lidiani Rodríguez Isaac, 22, unemployed

July 15

Placetas, Villa Clara

In detention

A state security agent summoned her and her sister Lisdany to a police station, where they were arrested on charges of “contempt,” “public disorder,” and “assault” for allegedly hitting an officer in a July 11 demonstration, which their family denies. A prosecutor has requested that they be sentenced to 10 years in prison.

Lisdany Rodríguez Isaac, 22, teaching assistant in a school 

July 15

Placetas, Villa Clara

In detention

A state security agent summoned her and her sister Lidiani to a police station, where they were arrested on charges of “contempt,” “public disorder,” and “assault” for allegedly hitting an officer during a July 11 demonstration, which their family denies. A prosecutor has requested that they be sentenced to 10 years in prison.

Odet Hernández Cruzata, 32, hairstylist

July 15

Arroyo Naranjo, Havana

In detention

Several state security and police officers detained her and her husband, Reiner Reinosa Cabrera, at their home. Officers accused them of “inciting protests” through social media publications that showed the demonstrations in their neighborhood. She has been held incommunicado since the arrest and is under investigation for “damage to property,” “assault,” “instigation to commit crimes,” and “public disorder.”

Reinier Reinosa Cabrera, 41, bar employee

July 15

Arroyo Narajo, Havana

In detention

Several state security and police officers detained him and his wife, Odet Hernández Cruzata, at their home. Officers accused them of “inciting protests” through social media publications that showed the demonstrations in their neighborhood. He has been held incommunicado since the arrest and is under investigation for “damage to property,” “assault,” “instigation to commit crimes,” and “public disorder.”

Isabel María Amador Pardías, 24, student and member of the Catholic Cuban Youth Network 

July 16

Bayamo, Granma

Released

State security officers detained her at her home, days after she participated in a July 11 protest. The officers did not show an arrest warrant. She was held incommunicado until, on July 19, she was sent to pretrial house arrest. On August 31, she paid a 5,000 Cuban peso (US$200) fine, and an officer said the criminal case against her would be closed. The same officer told her she would be imprisoned if she participated in demonstrations again.

Karem del Pilar Refeca Remón, 24, dentist 

July 16

Bayamo, Granma

Released

Several state security officers arrested her at her home. She was held incommunicado and on July 19 sent to house arrest for publishing information on the protests on social media. On August 31, she paid a 5,000 Cuban peso (US$200) fine, and an officer said the criminal case against her would be closed.

Roberto Pérez Fonseca, 38, unemployed

July 16

San José de las Lajas, Mayabeque

In detention

Several state security and police officers detained him at his home. He was held incommunicado until on September 20 officers allowed him to call his family. He is under investigation for “contempt,” “assault,” “instigation to commit crimes,” and “public disorder” for allegedly organizing a July 11 protest and throwing a rock at a police officer, which his family denies. On August 23, a prosecutor requested that he be sentenced to 12 years in prison. He was put on trial on September 28. The court has yet to rule on his case.

Rowland Jesús Castillo Castro, 17, student 

July 16

Havana city, Havana

In detention

A police officer detained him when he was leaving a friend’s home. His family has not been allowed to visit him and he has only been able to call twice. An officer told his family that he is in pretrial detention on charges of “assault” and “public disorder” in connection with his participation in a July 11 protest.

Virgilio Mantilla Arango, 50, member of the opposition group Camagüey’s Unit for Human Rights

July 16

Céspedes, Camagüey

In detention

Police officers detained him minutes after he participated in a small protest. Members of a rapid response brigade threatened to beat him with baseball bats during his arrest. On July 23, he was sentenced to nine months in prison for “public disorder,” and “contempt.” On August 10, a higher court upheld the conviction.

Ariam Morfa Blanco, 41, carpenter and welder

July 17

Cienfuegos city, Cienfuegos

Released

Police and state security officers detained him for participating in the July 11 protests and charged him with “public disorder.” He was held incommunicado until, on July 23, his wife was allowed to see him. On July 31, he was sent to house arrest. Days later, he was released from house arrest after paying a 2,000 Cuban peso (around US$80) fine, and an officer said the criminal case against him would be closed.

Enmanuel Robles Pérez, 32, member of the opposition group Movement of Opponents for a New Republic

July 17

Batabanó, Mayabeque

In detention

Police officers detained him and his wife, Mailene Noguera Santiesteban, at their home. Officers accused them of leading a July 11 protest. He is in pretrial detention on charges of “public disorder.”

Mailene Noguera Santiesteban, 35, activist 

July 17

Batabanó, Mayabeque

In detention

Police officers detained her and her husband, Enmanuel Robles Pérez, at their home. Officers accused them of leading a July 11 protest. She is in pretrial detention on charges of “public disorder.”

Jorge Martín Perdomo, 38, self-employed

July 17

San José de las Lajas, Mayabeque

In detention

A police officer summoned him and his brother Nadir Perdomo to a police station, where they were arrested in connection with their participation in a July 11 protest. They have been held incommunicado since their arrest. Officers told their family that they are both under investigation for “instigation to commit crimes,” “contempt,” “assault,” “public disorder,” and “spreading an epidemic.”

Nadir Perdomo, 36, self-employed

July 17

San José de las Lajas, Mayabeque

In detention

A police officer summoned him and his brother Jorge Martín Perdomo to a police station, where they were arrested in connection with their participation in a July 11 protest. They have been held incommunicado since their arrest. Officers told their family that they are both under investigation for “instigation to commit crimes,” “contempt,” “assault,” “public disorder,” and “spreading an epidemic.”

Ángel Jesús Veliz Marcano, 26, employee

July 18

Camagüey city, Camagüey

In detention

Police officers arrested him in his home a few days after he participated in a July 11 protest in Camagüey. He was charged with “public disorder” for allegedly throwing a rock during the demonstration. A prosecutor has requested a 12-year prison sentence. He remains in pretrial detention.

Yadisley Rodríguez Ramírez, 33, journalist 

July 18

Camagüey city, Camagüey

House arrest

On July 18, a police officer summoned her to a station, where an officer said that she was under investigation for “public disorder” because she participated in the July 11 protests. On August 2, she was summoned again, and an officer said she would also be investigated for “instigation to commit crimes” in connection with her social media publications showing cases of people detained during the protests. She was sent to pretrial house arrest that day.

Erik Rodríguez León, 30, farmer

July 20

Güines, Mayabeque

In detention

A police officer summoned him, on July 20, to a police station, where officers detained and interrogated him about his participation in a July 12 protest. He was held incommunicado until, on July 31, officers allowed him to call his family. He remains in pretrial detention on charges of “contempt.”

Alizandra Omo Elegguasita, 25, saleswoman 

 

July 21

Cárdenas, Matanzas

Released

A state security agent summoned her, on July 20, to a police station, where they interrogated her about her participation in a July 11 protest. The next day, she was detained. She was held incommunicado in an overcrowded and unsanitary cell and accused of “instigation to commit crimes.” She was released on July 26 after paying a 1,000 Cuban peso (US$40) fine. She has not been informed whether she remains under criminal investigation.

Leonardo Luis Rivera, 39, carpenter

July 21

Havana city, Havana

In detention

A police officer summoned him to a police station, where he was detained. He was held in a cell that did not have natural light or ventilation. Officers pressed him to “confess” that he had led a July 11 protest in which he participated. He remains under investigation for “public disorder,” “instigation to commit crimes,” and “assault.”

Maikel Rodríguez Del Campo, 34, self-employed

July 21

Holguín city, Holguín

In detention

Twelve police officers arrested him at work. He was held incommunicado until August 20 when he was able to call his wife. He remains under investigation for “public disorder,” and “contempt” for participating in a July 11 protest.

Alejandro Reyes Nuñez, 30, self-employed

July 22

La Lisa, Havana

In detention

Police officers arrested him and his brother-in-law Marlon David Batista at their home. They remain in pretrial detention on charges of “assault” for allegedly throwing rocks during a July 11 demonstration. His family denies that he threw any rocks.

Marlon David Batista Martínez, 25, unemployed

July 22

La Lisa, Havana

In detention

Police officers arrested him and his brother-in-law Alejandro Reyes Nuñez at their home. They remain in pretrial detention on charges of “assault” for allegedly throwing rocks during a July 11 demonstration. His family denies that he threw any rocks.

Orlando Félix Vega Córdova, 24, janitor

July 22

Cárdenas, Matanzas

In detention

Officers detained him at his home in the middle of the night. They accused him of throwing rocks during a July 11 protest. On July 25, he told a relative that officers had subjected him to “psychological abuse” and that he had tried to commit suicide.

Noslen Roque Cordero, 41, gardener and plumber

July 24

Güines, Mayabeque

In detention

Several police and “Black Beret” officers detained him at work. He has been held incommunicado since the arrest and faces charges of “assault” and “public disorder” for allegedly inciting protesters to throw rocks during a July 11 protest.

 

Region / Country