Two Cubans deported by the United States to the Central African Republic assert they were sent without any criminal records and have criticized the conditions surrounding their deportation to the African nation.
Their account surfaced on Facebook this Sunday, featuring Arístides Fernández García, a Cuban who identifies himself with an I-220A document. He discusses with another compatriot the events leading to their deportation to the Central African Republic.
"I am the Cuban with I-220A who was brought to Africa without any criminal record or deportation order," Fernández stated, providing his perspective on his migration status at the time he was sent to the African continent.
In the video, he is accompanied by another Cuban who identified himself only as Henry, who also insisted he had no criminal record when he was deported to the Central African Republic.
Henry recounted that his removal from the United States was forceful, claiming he suffered acts of violence during the process. "They beat us, shot rubber bullets... they deceived us into coming here," he declared.
He further described the challenges he faced upon arrival, such as lacking a phone and being unable to contact his family. "They put us on a bus, took us to a private airport, and forcibly removed us from there," he asserted.
During his statement, he mentioned it had taken "13 or 14 days" to contact his family, yet Fernández later mentioned Henry had been in the Central African Republic for about a week, leaving the exact timeframe unclear.
Fernández explained he was lent a phone to reach his family and noted that the newcomer was still deeply affected by the ordeal.
"We've told them we will support them because we're alone here, but we don't want more people brought to this country," he expressed, voicing concern for other Cubans who might face similar deportation.
He urged that the images be shared to highlight the plight of migrants sent to third countries.
"If we don't raise our voices, the abuse will continue [...] Folks, share these videos, let's keep making noise. Otherwise, they'll keep bringing people. This is an injustice," he proclaimed.
Fernández, 37, had previously reported the conditions under which he was deported by the United States to the Central African Republic.
According to his testimony, he had a valid work permit until 2030 and was awaiting a decision on his asylum request when he was detained after appearing in a Miami immigration court.
He has consistently maintained that he has no criminal record in the United States.
He is not the only Cuban who has spoken out about his situation from Bangui.
Recently, Fernández and Yasmany Moreno reported that their cases were re-evaluated by judges and, according to their lawyers, there were encouraging signs about their proceedings.
Both have used social media to advocate for a review of their cases and to prevent other migrants from being sent under similar circumstances to the Central African Republic.
Concerns Over Cuban Deportations
Why were the Cubans deported to the Central African Republic?
According to the deportees, they were sent to the Central African Republic despite having no criminal records or deportation orders. They have criticized the conditions and process of their deportation.
What challenges did the deported Cubans face upon arrival?
The Cubans reported facing significant difficulties, including lack of communication means like a phone and the inability to contact their families. They also mentioned being misled and forcibly removed from the United States.
How are the deportees raising awareness about their situation?
The deportees are using social media platforms to share their stories and advocate for a review of their cases to prevent similar situations for other migrants. They urge people to share their videos to raise awareness of their plight.