Cuban security agents and pro-government civilians blocked the Ladies in White from marching for a second Sunday in a row, signaling a clampdown on a group that has won growing attention and support abroad.

The nine women were surrounded following their usual Mass at a Havana church, and after a three-hour standoff some were forced into a bus and driven away, said group member Alejandrina García.

"They did not let us march. They did not let us take one step forward or backward," added García. "I was picked up by the arms and legs and forced into the bus."

The second blockage of a march in as many weeks indicated the government has decided to put a stop to the women's Sunday protests, which are covered by foreign journalists in Havana and have drawn growing international backing and recognition.

The Ladies in White, female relatives of dissidents jailed since 2003, have won several human-rights prizes for their peaceful protests demanding the release of their relatives and all other political prisoners.

President Barack Obama mentioned them in a recent statement, and singer Gloria Estefan showed him photos of the women during a fundraiser at her Miami home last week.

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