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Cuban reggaeton artist El Chulo, whose real name is Abel Díaz Rodríguez, is currently in custody of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), as confirmed by the official federal detainee locator system.
According to public data from ICE, El Chulo is currently held at the Florida Soft Side South detention center, located in Ochopee, Florida (54575 Tamiami TRL E, NA, FL 34141). Visitor information for the center is provided through the number (305) 207-2100.
The artist's official record confirms their inclusion in the deportation system supervised by the Office of Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO), based in Miami.
Detained due to a pending deportation order
On Thursday, January 22, the popular urban genre performer was arrested by federal ICE agents due to a pending deportation order that has been active for several years, related to a firearms incident in the Tampa area, as revealed by journalist Daniel Benítez.
The reporter added that El Chulo failed to attend a immigration appointment at the beginning of this year, which led immigration officials to carry out his detention at the residence where he lived.
What could happen with your case?
The case of El Chulo is in a delicate phase, as a final deportation order can be executed immediately following an arrest. However, legal or diplomatic factors could delay the process.
Although the natural destination of a deportation would be Cuba, the artist's critical stance against the Cuban regime could complicate his return to the island. In that scenario, there is a possibility that Mexico or another country could serve as an alternative destination, as has happened with other Cubans with similar migration backgrounds.
Her partner breaks the silence
After the artist's arrest, María Karla Castro, his partner and mother of his youngest son, broke her silence on social media. In an Instagram story, she expressed her gratitude for the support received and issued a warning to immigrants without legal status in the United States.
"I want to thank everyone who has been concerned about Abel; I haven't been able to respond. I just ask that those who do not have status take good care of themselves, drive carefully, and not go out unnecessarily. This can happen to anyone. Blessings," wrote the young woman.
Their message arrives at a difficult time for the family. María Karla and El Chulo became parents just six months ago when they welcomed their son Justin, born in June 2025. On social media, the couple used to share family moments and messages of gratitude, now interrupted by the uncertainty of the immigration process.
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