In an emotional appeal, the wife of Roberto Álvarez Ávila, one of the survivors of a recent boat incident in Cuban waters, spoke out during an interview with journalist Mario J. Pentón. She described her husband as "a decent man who loves Cuba" and "a freedom fighter."
The wife is demanding answers from the Cuban government about her husband's location and condition, urging U.S. authorities to launch an investigation.
The plea comes amid uncertainty surrounding Álvarez Ávila's whereabouts. The official Cuban narrative, which reports multiple casualties and injuries from the clash and labels those involved as "terrorists," is rejected by his family, who say they cannot verify these claims.
Family Defends Roberto Against "Terrorist" Label
During the interview, Álvarez Ávila's family, including his sister and wife, insisted he is not a violent individual and confirmed he has no criminal record. "He is not a terrorist. He is not a violent person... he's a hardworking, good man," they stated, emphasizing his vision of "a free Cuba" while denying any knowledge of a "plan" or "project" involving the boat.
The family expressed deep concern over the lack of official confirmation about his status: "We don't know where they are... no one has seen them... no one knows if it's real," they said, questioning the absence of direct information regarding the detained and injured individuals.
Who Is Roberto Álvarez Ávila?
Roberto Álvarez Ávila is portrayed as a U.S. citizen who arrived in America at the age of nine. He is a father of three daughters, has been married for 17 years, and has built a stable life through hard work, owning a farm and having a passion for animals. Images shared by Pentón show him gently interacting with his animals.
His wife, visibly distressed, shared her anxiety over the lack of news: "I'm in a state of nerves... I don't know anything about him... I want to know about him," she said.
She also described him as a "cheerful" person who "always loved to laugh" and has been an animal lover "since he was little."
The family expressed skepticism about the Cuban government's narrative. They questioned how, if the group was "armed to the teeth" with "bulletproof vests" as claimed by Havana, the outcome reportedly left everyone dead or injured. "The story is not being told correctly," they insisted.
They also noted that relatives in Cuba sought information in medical centers but found no conclusive results and complained that they have not been officially informed of Roberto's location or the true extent of his injuries.
In her final message, the wife urged U.S. authorities to do "everything possible" to clarify what happened and take action, reminding them that Roberto is an American citizen. She called for "proper investigations with evidence," highlighting the availability of technological means to uncover the truth.
Understanding the Incident Involving Roberto Álvarez Ávila
What happened to Roberto Álvarez Ávila?
Roberto Álvarez Ávila was involved in an incident in Cuban waters where the Cuban government reported casualties and injuries, labeling those involved as "terrorists." His family disputes these claims and is seeking information about his whereabouts and condition.
Why is the family skeptical of the Cuban government's narrative?
The family doubts the Cuban government's account because it conflicts with their understanding of Roberto's character and because they have not received direct information or confirmation about his status.