MIAMI, June 21 (UPI) -- An anti-Castro group in Miami said a Cuban refugee intercepted in the Florida Straits by the Coast Guard slashed his wrist to prevent his repatriation.
The Democracy Movement said Hector Martin Sanchez is being treated aboard a Coast Guard cutter and likely will be taken back to Cuba when he recovers, The Miami Herald reported Monday.
The Coast Guard would not confirm or deny the report.
"Until we close the case, we cannot discuss it," said Petty Officer Luis Negron.
Ramon Saul Sanchez, president of the Democracy Movement, said Hector Sanchez -- no relation -- was among five refugees intercepted by the Coast Guard. The other four were returned to Cuba Saturday, he said.
Ramon Sanchez said he confirmed his account with sources in Cuba and relatives of the migrants in Miami.
The incident is seen as a desperate measure to reach the United States. Once refugees set foot on shore, they are generally allowed to stay under the nation's wet foot-dry foot policy.
