Independent journalist Camila Acosta has brought to light new information about a Cuban State Security enforcer known by the alias "Major Alejandro." Through a series of posts on her social media account, Acosta recounted how she recognized him in a location within Havana after not seeing him for four years.
According to her account, Alejandro orchestrated several repressive actions against her in 2020, including evictions, arbitrary detentions, interrogations, and threats. Acosta also pointed out that Alejandro was involved in harassing other activists and independent journalists such as Iliana Hernández, Nancy Alfaya, Marthadela Tamayo, and María Matienzo.
"He is one of those enforcers who takes pleasure in intimidating others, relishing the power he derives from instilling fear. Therefore, when Cuba inevitably changes, he won't be able to hide behind the excuse of merely following orders," Acosta wrote.
During one interrogation in 2020, Alejandro threatened that her grandparents would bear the consequences of her journalism, warning, "We know they are very ill, and should they end up in a hospital, that would be your fault." The journalist added that Alejandro instructed the creation of a false criminal record against her.
After recognizing him in Havana, Acosta and her partner, who also suffered at the hands of Major Alejandro, managed to capture footage of the enforcer, who then attempted to seize their phone to prevent being recorded. She emphasized that these materials will be crucial for future legal actions and suggested they could be used in a potential "Cuban Nuremberg" trial.
Acosta concluded her revelation with a clear message: "It's important that these henchmen understand their impunity will end, and no matter where they hide, they won't escape justice."
Camila Acosta was arrested in July 2021, following her coverage of the July 11 protests, and subsequently placed under house arrest for over ten months, accused of "public disorder" and "incitement to commit a crime." During this time, Acosta reported continuous harassment by State Security, including constant surveillance outside her home and restrictions on her freedom of movement.
In November 2021, after 118 days of house arrest, she reported increased aggression in the surveillance, with State Security agents and police monitoring her activities around the clock. By May 2022, the authorities closed her case, fined her 1,000 pesos, and restored her freedom of movement. However, the harassment persisted, with incidents such as the siege of her home by State Security in April 2022.
Insight into Cuban State Security Tactics
Who is Major Alejandro?
Major Alejandro is an alias used by a State Security officer in Cuba, involved in repressive actions against journalists and activists.
What kind of threats did Camila Acosta face?
Camila Acosta faced threats of harm to her family, false criminal charges, and continuous surveillance by State Security.
How did Camila Acosta respond to the harassment?
Camila Acosta documented the harassment, captured evidence of the enforcer, and shared her experiences publicly to raise awareness and seek justice.