The Cuban journalist and activist José Luis Tan was arbitrarily detained on Friday by State Security in the province of Camagüey and threatened with imprisonment if he takes any action against the regime on July 11 (11J).
Through the social network Facebook, Tan recounted that the detention occurred while he was connecting to the internet at Parque Agramonte. An agent identified as "Laura" approached him, seized his mobile phone, and intimidated him with arrest if he shouted.
Seconds later, the activist was transported in a patrol car to the Third Unit of the National Revolutionary Police, where "Laura" and another agent known as "Marcelo" issued several warnings.
During the interrogation, they stated that he could not be in public places or make any social media posts on July 11, accusing him of being a "negative leader" in the province.
Despite being handed a warning letter, Tan refused to sign it and was threatened with prosecution for disobedience and contempt if he did not comply with the orders.
Even in the face of this latest harassment, Tan stood firm and reaffirmed his commitment to independent journalism and his determination to fight against injustices.
In fact, the journalist, who also posted a video explaining the situation, was imprisoned at the end of April and the beginning of May without cause, which mobilized Cubans fighting for freedom, forcing the regime to release him.
The young activist is part of a group of human rights activists, relatives of political prisoners, and journalists in Camagüey, who have proposed six essential steps to save the Cuban people from the current economic crisis and liberate them from tyranny.
Among the measures are respecting and supporting peaceful demonstrations, removing all barriers that hinder the economy, and releasing political prisoners, as well as ending any form of harassment.
The group also demanded the proper use of state resources wasted on repression and political propaganda, the elimination of Communist Party control over the Constitution, and the holding of truly democratic elections within six months.
State Security Harassment of José Luis Tan
Here are some frequently asked questions about the recent harassment experienced by journalist José Luis Tan and the broader implications for Cuba.
Why was José Luis Tan detained?
José Luis Tan was arbitrarily detained by State Security in Camagüey while using the internet at Parque Agramonte. He was threatened with imprisonment if he takes any action against the regime on July 11.
What were the warnings given to José Luis Tan during the interrogation?
During the interrogation, Tan was told he could not be in public places or make any social media posts on July 11. He was accused of being a "negative leader" and was threatened with prosecution for disobedience and contempt if he did not comply.
What steps have the activists in Camagüey proposed?
The activists proposed six steps, including respecting and supporting peaceful protests, removing economic barriers, releasing political prisoners, ending harassment, proper use of state resources, eliminating Communist Party control over the Constitution, and holding democratic elections within six months.