The Provincial Prosecutor's Office in Ciego de Ávila has verified the arrest and imprisonment of five adults due to their involvement in recent protests within the area. These demonstrations were driven by prolonged power outages and the dire living conditions that the population endures, yet the regime swiftly deployed its oppressive tactics against those who protested.
During a special news program, Mayda Montejo García, the Provincial Prosecutor of Ciego de Ávila, stated that the actions taken by the protesters posed a threat to public safety by disrupting traffic and causing disturbances. "When individuals engage in what they temporarily perceive as a just act, they may inadvertently endanger public security," Montejo García explained.
Legal Implications of Protests
She emphasized that under the current Penal Code, Law 143 outlines the procedures for dealing with acts that go beyond administrative offenses and escalate into criminal activities. The prosecutor urged citizens to refrain from public demonstrations, arguing that such actions adversely affect fellow citizens and force the state to intervene with criminal law.
"Do not extend beyond the mere assertion of a right, because instead of benefiting, you harm the fellow citizen beside you who faces the same hardships, compelling the Prosecutor's Office to intervene and enforce legal repression, imposing penalties that ultimately do not please any of the prosecutors," Montejo García stated.
Details of the Arrests and Protests
Meanwhile, Prosecutor Ismael González Sánchez revealed that around 50 adults participated in the protests in Ciego de Ávila, with some accompanied by minors. The protesters, according to González, blocked traffic and demanded solutions from local authorities. Alleged physical confrontations occurred, although details were not specified.
Following police investigations, five adults were identified as key "instigators" and subsequently detained. They have been placed under provisional custody as the legal proceedings against them unfold.
Broader Context of Social Unrest
The General Prosecutor's Office of the Republic confirmed the arrests of protesters in several Cuban provinces and supported the actions of provincial prosecutors, warning that any demonstrations that disrupt public peace will be dealt with harshly under the law.
This situation highlights the rising social discontent in Cuba, where economic hardships and repressive measures are increasingly straining the population's patience and tolerance.