Cuban protests surge over power cuts as dozens are detained, including minors

Widespread demonstrations have erupted across Cuba, expanding from demands for electricity, water and food to broader calls for freedom. Daily cacerolazo protests have taken place in Havana neighborhoods such as San Antonio de los Baños, Santos Suárez, and San Miguel del Padrón, as well as in other towns, spurred by prolonged blackouts after the shutdown of the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant.

Human‑rights group Cubalex reports that at least 38 people have been arrested in connection with the protests through June, including six minors. The arrests encompass women detained after a June 19 rally in Regla and youths detained after a fire at the Orlando Pantoja Tamayo memorial in Santiago de Cuba. Detainees have been moved to police stations and a penal operations centre, with reports of beatings and threats, and many remain without access to legal counsel.