Cuban authorities announced on Monday that a group of men captured following an attempt to enter the country by force from the United States have confessed and are cooperating with investigators. Officials stated that forensic examinations of the weapons and explosives seized from the suspects confirmed that the equipment was powerful and in good working condition.
The incident occurred on Feb. 25 when a speedboat carrying 10 men of Cuban origin departed from the United States and attempted to enter Cuban waters.
According to authorities, the group opened fire on a Cuban coast guard vessel that attempted to intercept them. The confrontation took place approximately 1.6 kilometers, or one mile, northeast of Cayo Falcones, located off the northern coast of Cuba. During the exchange, three of the attackers were killed, and a fourth individual later died from injuries sustained in the clash. The captain of the Cuban coast guard vessel was also wounded in the encounter.
In addition to the boat occupants, officials reported the arrest of one person on land who allegedly provided support to the group. The Interior Ministry of Cuba previously displayed a cache of seized items, which included handguns, rifles, explosives, ammunition, and various supplies such as uniforms, helmets, medical kits, food, a generator, and satellite communication equipment.
"The weapons and explosives were all in good working condition and ready to be used to cause harm," said Estrada, who spoke on behalf of the authorities.
Investigators have identified Amijail Sánchez, a Cuban national who has resided in the United States since 2016, as the person who fired the initial shots. Sánchez, who is currently in custody, was previously named on a list of alleged terrorists submitted by Cuba to the United Nations last year. Another detainee, Leordan Cruz, is also on that list. In video recordings presented by the government, Cruz stated that the group intended to secure territory and incite Cubans to overthrow the government.
While the offenses involved could potentially carry the death penalty, Estrada noted that prosecutors have not yet requested specific sentences. Cuba has not conducted an execution in several decades. The government stated that it has shared its findings with the United States but has not received a response as of Monday.
The incident occurs against a backdrop of heightened tensions, as Washington has imposed energy restrictions on the island and has not ruled out military action as part of its efforts to force a change in government.
