Cuban security chief Emir Mesa assaulted and robbed in Havana

Emir Mesa, a brigadier general and head of Cuba’s General Directorate of Protection, was reportedly assaulted and robbed in central Havana earlier this month. According to Spanish-language media and independent Cuban outlets, assailants attacked Mesa with fists and feet, stealing a Rolex watch and his service pistol.

The incident occurred shortly after a ceremony commemorating the 65th anniversary of the protection agency, an event attended by President Miguel Díaz-Canel and former leader Raúl Castro. During that ceremony, Mesa had emphasized the need for heightened readiness against potential kidnappings or assassinations targeting high-level leadership.

While Cuban authorities have reportedly arrested at least three suspects following a search operation, they have not disclosed the identities of the detainees or specific details regarding the investigation. The assault of a high-ranking security official in a major urban center is considered highly unusual given the country’s strict state control and security apparatus.