The arrest of a man by the police on the iconic pedestrian street, Enramadas, in Santiago de Cuba, has sparked controversy among those who labeled him a cellphone thief and those who reject that version, including the man himself.
A video shared on social media by journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada captured the moment the man was detained by the police in front of numerous onlookers. "I didn't steal anything. Record this. They hit me for no reason, for no reason," the man is heard saying while the police escorted him to the second police station, known as "El Palacete."
In the comments section, several witnesses explained that the police had asked the young man for his ID card, causing him to become nervous and run because he usually sells chains and other items in that area. "The problem is that the police don't know how to do their job. They took me for no reason, mistaking me for someone else. All those bastards... I've never been involved in anything like that. Look at the comments from people who know me," wrote Yaisel Ramírez López, who identified himself as the man arrested in the video.
Several people confirmed knowing him and supported his version. "He ran out of nerves, not because of a crime. After making him go through that unnecessary embarrassment, he was acquitted the same day, and in reality, he was the one who suffered losses as his belongings were stolen and he was beaten for no reason," argued one woman.
Others expressed doubt: "The thief always says he didn't do anything," noted one commenter. A third group testified that the Enramadas area is a hotspot for various activities, including numerous thefts. "My God, you don't know who to believe anymore," concluded a confused netizen amid a landscape where all kinds of complaints happen daily.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Controversial Arrest in Santiago de Cuba
Given the various opinions and reactions to the arrest on Enramadas street, here are some frequently asked questions to provide more clarity on the incident.
What sparked the controversy over the arrest?
The controversy began when a man was arrested by the police, and conflicting opinions emerged about whether he was a cellphone thief or wrongfully accused.
Who is Yaisel Ramírez López?
Yaisel Ramírez López is the man arrested in the video who claimed his innocence and stated that he was mistaken for another person.
What did the witnesses say?
Witnesses had mixed reactions; some supported Ramírez López's version, saying he was nervous and ran, while others doubted his innocence, pointing out the high crime rate in the area.