Cuban man arrested for refusing to carry "clarias and informants" in San Antonio de los Baños had his tricycle confiscated

Indignation is rising on social media following a new complaint that highlights the cost of expressing an opinion in Cuba. Relatives of Felipe Rodríguez Ledesma, the rickshaw driver detained in San Antonio de los Baños, now claim that the authorities intend to take away his means of livelihood.

The complaint was published on Facebook by his sister, Maggie Y. Ale Agüero, who warned that the tricycle — bought “with her work and sacrifice” — would be handed over to the local government while the man remains in pretrial detention.

"Her crime is being free and choosing whom to carry in her vehicle," the woman wrote, referring to the sign Felipe placed on his tricycle: "I do not carry snitches or informants. Only free men," a phrase that is said to have prompted his arrest on March 3rd.

According to the family, the decision regarding the tricycle has already been communicated by a police instructor, even though the case has not yet been evaluated by a court. “Not even an impartial judge has reviewed their case, but they already have what is still their property,” her sister reported.

The message has generated strong reactions among users, who see it not only as a punishment for expressing a personal stance but also as a possible attempt to deprive the elderly man of his livelihood.

Felipe Rodríguez, 68 years old, is known in his community as a humble and beloved man. His arrest had already been reported days earlier by activists and neighbors, who claim that his only "crime" was refusing to transport people he identified as regime informants, popularly known as "clarias" or "chivatos."

Now, the situation seems to be worsening. The possible confiscation of their tricycle not only prolongs the uncertainty surrounding their case but also leaves their family without the means they depended on to survive.

"How far does the audacity go?" questioned her sister in the post, where she also asked to share the report to raise awareness about what happened.

So far, the Cuban authorities have not provided official information regarding the case nor have they responded to the allegations of vehicle confiscation.

Meanwhile, on social media, the demand for freedom for Felipe is growing, along with the rejection of what many see as yet another example of repression and abuse of power on the island.