Rigoberto Díaz Cruz, the Cuban accused of assaulting a Mexican citizen in Cancún, posted a video on Facebook to share his side of the events and clarify what happened, claiming that he acted to protect his pregnant wife from a man who was harassing her.
"It is true that I acted violently, but you also have to watch the video from the beginning to understand why I did it," Rigoberto stated in the recording.
The man explained that his reaction was due to a situation of direct harassment: "I acted this way for the safety of my wife, who is pregnant. I did it because that person was harassing my wife, and that's why I reacted violently."
Rigoberto also questioned the timing of the video’s dissemination on social media: "That incident happened two months ago, and I don't understand the purpose of posting it on social media now after such a long time."
Additionally, he denied that the allegation about the dog bite is real and issued a public challenge: "All I want is for him to prove the supposed dog bite, because that is also false. I want him to publish the dog bite and the complete genuine video. Then we will see who is right."
He also expressed his regret for the damage caused to the home where they reside: "My wife and I feel very sorry for the homeowner, a person who has provided us with a home and offered us the best care since we arrived in Cancun."
The case originated on May 28 when a Mexican citizen reported having been attacked by the alleged owner of a dog without a leash in Supermanzana 23 of Cancun.
The whistleblower's video went viral and sparked a wave of hostile comments, until around 200 people gathered outside the Cuban's home that same night, throwing stones and bottles that shattered windows and damaged the gate.
The security operation deployed included the Municipal Police, State Police, National Guard, and riot control teams, and the crowd dispersed around 9:30 PM.
The couple was placed under the protection of the National Migration Institute following the operation, and paramedics attended to Yudelmis due to her pregnancy before the transfer.
According to unofficial reports, Rigoberto could face a repatriation process to Cuba, as the INM has up to 15 business days to resolve his immigration status.
The episode takes place against a backdrop of increasing tension in the area: on April 16, residents of Supermanzana 23 had already protested at the Benito Juárez city hall, reporting at least ten monthly incidents of assaults and thefts. On May 21, four Cubans were arrested for shooting a singer in the same vicinity.
The Cuban community in Mexico also reacted to the case, with voices that condemned the aggression and warned about its collective consequences.
Marylín Torres Leal, president of the CISVAC foundation, warned that the situation could worsen: "Many people will pay the price for others, which is concerning. The issue could escalate and become worse if action is not taken."
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