Cuban activist Amelia Calzadilla has raised the alarm over an alleged crackdown targeting young individuals associated with the independent project El 4tico. The alert comes after police officers reportedly showed up at the residence where the group produces and shares its content.
Calzadilla shared her concerns through a video on social media, warning, "This is an SOS to my community. It is happening right now," as she captured the moment police arrived at the scene.
Her accusation suggests that the authorities are conducting "an illegal search" of the home of these young people, whom she described as expressing themselves "civically and peacefully" from their own residence.
Directly challenging the regime's official stance, Calzadilla questioned, "Didn't they say that Cuba doesn’t persecute dissidents?" She demanded respect for individuals and the Cuban populace.
El 4tico shared the video on its social media platforms, receiving an outpouring of solidarity from numerous Cuban activists. In the footage, a police officer is heard stating, "You have a search warrant. You must open the door and let us in."
The group of at least four officers included one who showed the activist a document purported to be the search warrant.
Renowned on social media for its analytical and critical videos on Cuba's sociopolitical landscape, El 4tico has gained attention for challenging official narratives using communication strategies and historical context.
In a nation plagued by power outages, rampant inflation, mass migration, and growing social unrest, initiatives like these reignite the conversation around freedom of expression and creativity in Cuba.
As of now, the authorities have not released an official statement regarding the reported operation.
Understanding the Crackdown on El 4tico
What is the El 4tico project?
El 4tico is a Cuban project recognized for its videos that critically analyze and comment on the sociopolitical realities of Cuba, often challenging official narratives.
What was the recent incident involving El 4tico?
Police allegedly conducted an illegal search at the residence linked to El 4tico, sparking accusations of repression against the young activists involved in the project.
How has the community responded to the situation?
The community, including other Cuban activists, has shown considerable support and solidarity with El 4tico, sharing videos and voicing their opposition to the actions taken by the authorities.