The mother of Cuban comedian Eduardo "Eddy" Ceballos has come forward, stating on Wednesday that her son has been physically assaulted while in detention. She asserts that the espionage charges levied against him by the Military Prosecutor lack credibility.
Marieta Pérez took to Facebook to voice her concerns about her son's safety, condemning what she describes as an increasing wave of injustice against him.
"They have attacked Eddy where he is held. It's not enough to falsely accuse him and imprison him; now they want to harm, beat, or even kill him," she expressed.
Pérez highlighted that the attack occurred as the case has gained wider public attention both inside and outside of Cuba.
Growing Public Attention and Legal Doubts
"As the case becomes more publicized and the Military Prosecutor's evidence against Eddy for espionage crumbles, other tactics are being used," she stated.
Pérez concluded her message with a direct accusation against the authorities.
"I denounce such arbitrariness, such brazenness. This mother stands firm, and the truth will be known by anyone who refuses to turn a blind eye to injustice."
Eddy Ceballos' Arrest and Legal Battle
Ceballos was detained on June 1 in the Diez de Octubre district of Havana, shortly after posting a video exploring an old abandoned military site. The footage featured Soviet missiles, radars, and other Cold War-era structures, which he described as "the most warlike episode" of his popular channel.
During the arrest operation, Ceballos was not allowed to return home or say goodbye to his wife Daniela and their four-year-old daughter, according to his family.
Before his arrest, Ceballos had recorded a message anticipating this possibility.
"If you are watching this video, it unfortunately means that I have been imprisoned, taken away from my home, my family, my daughter," he said.
Legal Controversy and Public Support
Initially, authorities told the family that he would be charged with "invasion of military property." However, the legal organization Cubalex noted that this crime does not exist under current Cuban law.
The case later shifted to an accusation of "revealing state security secrets," a charge that falls under military jurisdiction and carries penalties of up to 30 years in prison.
Both Cubalex and attorney Alain Santana have criticized the legal basis of the charges against Ceballos, arguing that the authorities have pursued charges that are contentious within Cuban law.
Ceballos' detention has sparked widespread support. His Despingovery Channel gained significant popularity since 2025 for its satirical take on nature documentaries, humorously depicting urban decay, blackouts, and other everyday issues in Cuba.
The case has crossed Cuban borders, drawing international media attention and sparking social media campaigns under the banner "Free Eddy."
In recent days, family and friends have intensified their outcry over the comedian's situation. His father also recently shared a public account of the emotional toll the imprisonment has taken on them both.
He recounted one of the most haunting moments was seeing his son feeling ashamed during a visit behind bars, an experience he described as profoundly painful.
Key Questions About Eddy Ceballos' Case
What charges is Eddy Ceballos facing?
Eddy Ceballos is facing charges of "revealing state security secrets," which is under military jurisdiction and can lead to a sentence of up to 30 years in prison.
Why was Ceballos initially arrested?
He was initially detained for allegedly "invading military property," a charge that does not exist under current Cuban law, according to Cubalex.
How has the public responded to Ceballos' detention?
There has been a significant wave of support, with international media coverage and campaigns on social media advocating for his release.