A couple from Palma Soriano in Santiago de Cuba has been arbitrarily detained since Sunday, April 13, after demonstrating against a hefty 16,000 peso fine imposed on the husband for selling produce.
Alexeis Serrano Águila, a self-employed worker and government opponent, was summoned to the Palma Soriano police station on that day and was detained upon arrival. His wife, Delis Frómeta Suárez, was also taken into custody when she went to inquire about him.
The incident began on Friday, April 11, when an inspector fined Serrano Águila for selling produce. The couple publicly protested, and a video of Frómeta Suárez's reaction was shared widely on social media. In the video, she is heard questioning her fellow citizens: "How long will Cubans keep their tongues tied? This is why Cuba is the way it is, because no one stands up for their rights."
They are both charged with the crime of contempt and face the possibility of being held in provisional detention pending trial.
Public Outcry and Human Rights Violations
The situation was publicly denounced by activist José Raúl Gallego, who highlighted that the couple is being held "arbitrarily, accused of contempt, and at risk of being put in provisional detention soon."
Cubalex, a human rights organization, condemned the case as a severe violation of human rights. They raised concerns about the communication blackout faced by the detainees and the deterioration of their health conditions. According to the organization, Alexeis Serrano Águila is on a hunger strike, while Delis Frómeta Suárez, who suffers from chronic illnesses, has not received proper medical care. The organization also warned about the life-threatening risks they face and demanded their immediate release.
Impact on Family and Community
The family's situation is dire. The detention of the couple has left their two young daughters in a precarious position, both financially and emotionally vulnerable, as they are now responsible for caring for their grandmother with minimal resources.
FAQs on the Arrest of Palma Soriano Couple
Why were Alexeis Serrano Águila and Delis Frómeta Suárez detained?
The couple was detained for protesting against a fine of 16,000 pesos imposed on Alexeis Serrano Águila for selling produce. They are accused of the crime of contempt.
What concerns have been raised about their detention?
Human rights organization Cubalex has highlighted the arbitrary nature of their detention, the lack of communication, health deterioration, and the life-threatening risks they face.
What impact has the detention had on their family?
Their detention has left their two young daughters in a vulnerable situation, having to care for their grandmother without sufficient resources.