TV report: Exile groups infiltrated

Ivan J. Luis, a lieutenant colonel in the Cuban armed forces who left Cuba on a raft and was detained at the U.S. Naval Base at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, infiltrated several Cuban exile organizations in Miami, a television reporter alleged Monday.

Channel 23's investigation suggested that Luis worked for Cuban intelligence, although his specific mission is unknown. Luis' last day in Miami was reported to be March 28.

According to a report aired on WLTV-Channel 23 by reporter Rafael Orizondo, Luis left Cuba five years ago, supposedly disgusted with the political and social situation on the island.

After arriving in Miami, Luis contacted organizations such as the Cuban American National Foundation, the Cuban American Military Committee, the Ex [Political Prisoners] Club, and the Free Soldiers and Officers Union, Orizondo said.

Ninoska Perez, a director of the Cuban American National Foundation, said Luis was present at many foundation activities.

``He was always snapping pictures everywhere and insisted on getting involved in all the events being planned,'' she said.

Alvaro Prendes, a former Cuban air force colonel and now a leader of the Free Soldiers and Officers Union, said Luis ``tried to infiltrate our organization.''

According to the two-month Channel 23 investigation Luis worked as a driver for Leon Medical Center and obtained a license as a security guard while he lived in Miami.

Orizondo's two-part report on Luis -- titled Another Spy Among Us? -- continues at 6 p.m. today on Channel 23.