Kenneth Estévez Lobaina, also known as "Kenito," made a dramatic escape from Paso de Cuba prison in Guantánamo province. From the wilderness, he recorded a video asserting his innocence and alleging corruption within Baracoa's police and judicial systems.
This video gained widespread attention after being shared on Facebook by former political prisoner José Daniel Ferrer García. Ferrer, now residing in Miami after being exiled in 2025, is the founder and leader of the Patriotic Union of Cuba (UNPACU).
Ferrer accompanied the video with the caption: "Escapes from prison and claims innocence from the wild. If you live in Baracoa, Guantánamo, Cuba, you might know the truth of his claims."
The post has garnered over 413,000 views and sparked more than 1,300 diverse comments.
The Allegations Leading to His Imprisonment
In the video, Estévez Lobaina states, "My name is Kenneth Estévez Lobaina, known as Kenito. I am a fugitive from Paso de Cuba prison for various reasons. One being that I maintain I have neither violated nor threatened anyone."
According to Estévez Lobaina, the trouble began on June 5 when his ex-girlfriend, Yaima Durán, accused him to Baracoa's police of threatening her and allegedly assaulting her 23-year-old daughter, Melanie.
After being detained for six days, he was moved to Paso de Cuba without charges being formally presented, a situation he claims continued for nearly three months.
A Conspiracy to Harm Him in Prison
Weeks later, Yaima Durán visited the prison with an officer named Dayan and Rudy, whom Kenneth identifies as the police chief. Ostensibly, the visit was to see her uncle Nano, also incarcerated.
However, Nano reportedly informed Kenneth that Yaima had offered money to other inmates to either assault or kill him.
"I escaped because I felt threatened in prison and feared for my life," Kenneth explained.
The next day, he reported his concerns to Lieutenant Colonel Gamboa and the deputy warden but, receiving no assistance, decided to flee.
Claims of Evidence Against Corruption
While in hiding, Estévez Lobaina claims to possess material proving a bribery scheme orchestrated by Yaima. "I have evidence: videos, calls, and messages," he insisted, implicating Dayan, Rudy, his brother Chito, and prosecutor Harrington in the alleged plot to keep him imprisoned.
He also mentioned that Melanie and Kenneth's mother attempted to report to Baracoa police that Melanie had not been harmed, but officers refused to take her statement.
"This shows the level of corruption here in Baracoa. I'm not the only one; many others face the same or worse because they are all part of an organized corrupt structure," he accused.
His Plea for Independent Investigation
Estévez Lobaina does not seek immunity but calls for authorities outside Baracoa to review his case. "I want prosecutors from Havana or elsewhere to examine my file," he demanded, adding, "I will surrender if my case is thoroughly investigated."
"All I want is justice," he concluded from an undisclosed location in Guantánamo's wilderness.
This situation is not unique. Cubalex reported 762 incidents involving mistreatment of prisoners in Cuba during the first half of 2026, indicating systemic issues within the penitentiary system.
Public Reaction: A Divided Opinion
The majority of comments leaned towards empathy, albeit with reservations. Some users felt his story was credible: "He speaks clearly and just seeks justice," one noted. Another commented, "There's no justice for anyone in Cuba; corruption is rampant in all institutions."
Others acknowledged the complexity without passing judgment: "He shouldn’t have escaped, but if he feared for his life, I understand why he did."
Some cautioned about legal ramifications: "Now you could also face charges for escaping, even if you're trying to prove your innocence." A notable portion urged caution: "To judge fairly, we must hear both sides and examine their evidence."
Exploring the Allegations and Kenneth's Claims
What led to Kenneth Estévez Lobaina's imprisonment?
Kenneth was allegedly accused by his ex-girlfriend of threats and sexual assault on her daughter, which led to his arrest.
What evidence does Kenneth claim to have?
He alleges to have videos, calls, and messages that prove a bribery scheme orchestrated by his ex-girlfriend involving several officials.
Why did Kenneth decide to escape from prison?
Kenneth claims he fled because he felt threatened and feared for his life due to a plan to harm him within the prison.
What does Kenneth want from the authorities?
He is requesting an independent investigation by authorities outside of Baracoa to review his case thoroughly.