On May 26 Alexander Mosque, general secretary of the National Union of Frito Lay Dominicana (SINTRALAYDO) was attacked and kidnapped by three unknown people. Alexander Mosque reported that he was returning to his home after a long day of union activities when three unknown persons came forward, pointing with a gun, forced him into a vehicle.
"I rode in the back seat and the men made me duck down, putting the gun to my head and pulling the car. I tried to stay calm and told them they could take whatever I have thus they wouldn't hurt me" reported Mosque. One of the men said: 'Yes. It's him. Mount him. We will return to talk to you again".
The kidnappers took his phone, but did not touch his money. "They opened the door and threw me from the moving vehicle. I think it was personal and not just a criminal act, "said Mosque.
While SINTRALAYDO general secretary, who is noted for his struggle in defense of labor and union rights, said he has no evidence linking this serious act of bullying with his performance in the union, there are many questions to uncover.
Recently, Mosque denounced the refusal of the company to recognize the union and to accept the beginning of collective bargaining. Also he warned the public of a possible unfair dismissal of 34 workers.
"With the SINTRALAYDO we are carrying out a fair fight and we will continue to lead the defense of the rights of workers in Dominican Frito Lay (PepsiCo).What has happened has changed my life and I really do not know what's going on. However, if I have to coordinate with my colleagues some security measures, I will continue to lead this fight and denounce this serious act of intimidation that is unprecedented in my country, "said Mosque.
The union leader's statement is a wakeup call to sister organizations, national and international, for new possible attacks against him or other SINTRALAYDO members.
Please click here [1] for the original Spanish article at REL-UITA site.