Habana, February 15, 1957-6 p.m.

396. We here now convinced recurrent killings of persons government maintains are oppositionists and terrorists are actually work of police and army. At least three such killings have occurred Habana alone during past few days. Official explanation is that men were apparently killed by other oppositionists. However . . . Legal Attache . . . received indirect admissions culpability within police circles . . . from other evidence police responsibility at least one case. This all part attempt (1) answer force with counterforce (2) give justification continuing suspension constitutional guarantees (3) throw fear into active insurrectionaries (4) stop terroristic activities including bombings.

Believe we should inform Cuban Government we aware such tactics and should indicate real concern regarding justification and results these methods. If existing censorship withdrawn March 1 as recently indicated by Batista we anticipate heavy attacks on administration by opposition and friends and relatives of deceased. Undoubtedly press will use gruesome pictures of victims some of which now being published. Present pictures follow pattern showing corpse riddled with bullets and unexploded bomb of dynamite sticks reposing on or near body. We consider there is strong possibility serious further reduction confidence in and respect for government by people in general as knowledge such extreme methods and brutality becomes widespread.

Intend inviting Santiago Rey[2] have another talk about matters general interest during which would indicate personal anxiety as to wisdom and effects such tactics. I doubt he has ordered such techniques but undoubtedly he knows what is going on.[3]

Gardner

NOTES:

[1] Source: Department of State, Central Files, 737.00/2-1557. Secret; Priority.

[2] Minister of Interior in Batista's government.

[3] In telegram 455 to Habana, February 16, Dulles replied as follows: "Action contemplated second paragraph reftel could be interpreted as US intervention internal Cuban affairs. No objection exerting informal personal influence on key officials of course. Trusting in Ambassador's usual discretion and judgement, discussion with Santiago Rey along lines suggested last paragraph reftel authorized." (Department of State, Central Files, 737.00/2-1557)