Police shooting of Aneury Santiago Cabrera Estévez sparks controversy

The family of Aneury Santiago Cabrera Estévez, known as ‘La Araña’, is questioning the circumstances surrounding his death following a police intervention in the Ensanche La Paz neighborhood of Santo Domingo.

According to the National Police and the Central Directorate of Investigation (Dicrim), Cabrera Estévez was wanted for involvement in violent robberies. Authorities claim he was killed after allegedly engaging in a shootout with a patrol, reporting the recovery of a .380 caliber pistol at the scene.

However, his sister, Judith Estévez, disputes this version. While acknowledging his criminal history and drug use, she maintains he was unarmed and should have been arrested rather than killed. She cited security camera footage suggesting he may have raised his hand before being shot. Cabrera Estévez was buried at the Cristo Redentor cemetery shortly after his death without a formal wake.