Cuban man allegedly stages kidnapping, demands money from father in the US

What was initially reported as the kidnapping of a Cuban national has taken a dramatic turn after the alleged victim reportedly told investigators that he staged the incident.

In fact, he said sent a photograph of himself with an air pistol in his mouth to his father in the United States while seeking money.

The News Room was reliably informed that matter was reported to police on Tuesday after relatives claimed that 29-year-old Cuban national, Ivan Ravelo Martinez had been kidnapped and that money was being demanded for his release.

According to reports reaching the News Room, a photograph showing Martinez with what appeared to be a firearm in his mouth was sent to his father in the United States along with a request for money.

Police launched an investigation and reviewed CCTV footage from a North Road, Georgetown building where Martinez had been staying. The footage led investigators to a property on the East Bank of Demerara, where Martinez and several other persons were found.

During a search, police recovered an air pistol believed to be the one seen in the photograph. Several persons, including a Police Constable and other Cuban nationals, were detained and questioned.

However, the News Room was told during questioning, Martinez reportedly told investigators that he had not been kidnapped. He claimed the air pistol belonged to him and that he asked another man to place it in his mouth while a photograph was taken. He also reportedly admitted to sending the image to his father while requesting US$1,500.

Police have seized several cellular phones and vehicles as investigations continue.Investigations are ongoing.