A former officer of the Cuban intelligence services was taken into custody on Wednesday morning in the United States for alleged fraud concerning his legal permanent resident status (LPR). The Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) office in Miami confirmed the arrest via its official account on the social media platform X, stating that the operation was conducted in cooperation with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
The statement emphasized, "HSI and its partners will continue their efforts to identify and arrest individuals who pose a threat to our national security." This arrest highlights the ongoing efforts by U.S. authorities to investigate and prosecute immigration fraud cases, particularly those involving individuals with previous ties to foreign intelligence agencies.
As of now, the identity of the arrested individual has not been disclosed, but they may face deportation proceedings, reported journalist Mario J. Pentón on his Facebook profile. Legal issues faced by former Cuban State Security agents in the United States have sparked various reactions in recent years.
Back in June 2019, it was reported that a former Cuban agent could be sentenced to 20 years in prison. Identified as Saúl Santos Ferro, the case ignited debate over the accountability of these officers after leaving the regime. Santos pleaded guilty to lying to authorities about his military past in Cuba when applying for permanent residency in the U.S. and committing fraud to obtain Social Security benefits.
In September, Santos was sentenced to six months in prison for falsifying information to secure a permanent residency visa in the United States. After serving his sentence, the former agent was to be placed on probation for two years for misrepresenting his connections to the Cuban regime on his immigration application, according to a federal judge's decision.
In 2024, the Cuban regime rejected Santos, who was deported from the United States, sending him back to Miami on the same plane he took to Havana. The ex-agent was part of a group of 48 Cubans returned to Cuba; however, the Cuban government refused to accept him, leading to speculation that he was living freely in Miami.
Insights into Cuban Intelligence and U.S. Immigration Fraud
What led to the arrest of the former Cuban intelligence officer?
The former Cuban intelligence officer was arrested due to alleged fraud related to his legal permanent resident status in the United States.
How are U.S. authorities dealing with immigration fraud cases?
U.S. authorities are actively investigating and prosecuting immigration fraud cases, especially those involving individuals with ties to foreign intelligence agencies.
What was the outcome of Saúl Santos Ferro's legal proceedings?
Saúl Santos Ferro was sentenced to six months in prison for lying to obtain a permanent residency visa, followed by two years of probation for misrepresenting his connections to the Cuban regime.