The initiative RepresoresCubanos.com, supported by the Foundation for Human Rights in Cuba, has added Major Noel Morales López, the head of Canaleta provincial prison in Ciego de Ávila, to its database. He is held accountable for the repression that ensued after inmates staged a riot on February 18 and 19, 2026.
The unrest was initially reported by José Daniel Ferrer, leader of the UNPACU, and later confirmed by the EFE agency, drawing on complaints from NGOs Prisoners Defenders and the Cuban Prisons Documentation Center (CDPC).
From within the prison, audio recordings emerged with chants of "Freedom," "Homeland and Life," and "Down with Díaz-Canel," amidst demands for food, better treatment, water, and improved living conditions.
Testimonies from activists suggest that the trigger for the riot was the alleged beating of a young inmate who requested food and later appeared hanged under circumstances that remain unverified independently.
Reports indicate that by the morning of the 19th, prison forces, firefighters, special troops known as Black Wasps of the FAR, and Black Berets of the MININT intervened. There were claims of rubber bullets, pepper spray, and physical violence used to quell the uprising.
José Daniel Ferrer reported ambulances coming and going from the prison and mentioned injuries. Meanwhile, Prisoners Defenders preliminarily suggested that "at least 10 inmates may have been killed by anti-riot forces," though this figure is pending independent verification.
As of now, no official confirmation has been provided regarding casualties or injuries.
The profile on Morales López accuses him of alleged violations of inmates' personal integrity and the United Nations' Mandela Rules, as well as potential involvement in acts classified by the organization as torture and other cruel treatments.
Cuban authorities have not released detailed public information about the incident at Canaleta prison.
Key Questions Surrounding Canaleta Prison Riot
What triggered the riot at Canaleta prison?
The riot was reportedly triggered by the alleged beating of a young inmate who asked for food and was later found hanged under unverified circumstances.
Who intervened to control the riot?
Prison forces, firefighters, special troops known as Black Wasps of the FAR, and Black Berets of the MININT were involved in quelling the riot.
Has there been any official confirmation of casualties?
As of now, there has been no official confirmation regarding any deaths or injuries resulting from the riot.