“Ex-US Ambassador Arrested for Alleged Cuban Espionage in Miami”
A former U.S. ambassador to Bolivia, Manuel Rocha, has been arrested and accused of clandestinely acting as an agent for the Cuban government. The 73-year-old diplomat was taken into custody in Miami following a criminal complaint filed against him. Additional information regarding the case is anticipated to be disclosed during a scheduled court appearance on Monday.
The accusation against Rocha, as detailed in the Justice Department case, alleges his involvement in advancing the interests of the Cuban government without proper registration, as mandated by federal law for individuals engaged in foreign political activities within the United States. In recent times, the Justice Department has intensified its efforts to criminally prosecute unauthorized foreign lobbying.
Rocha’s extensive 25-year diplomatic career spanned both Democratic and Republican administrations, primarily focusing on Latin American affairs during the era of the Cold War. His service included postings in Italy, Honduras, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic. Notably, he also contributed as a Latin America specialist for the National Security Council.
When reached for comment, Rocha’s wife, Karla Wittkop Rocha, declined to provide any statements to the Associated Press. “I don’t need to talk to you,” she expressed before ending the conversation.
