A Cuban was arrested following the discovery of a marijuana plantation on his farm, which belongs to the Agroforestry Basic Business Unit (UEB) of Holguín, according to a report by the official Facebook profile Cazador-Cazado.
The operation took place in the Las Minas neighborhood of the Báguanos municipality, and the arrested individual has been identified as Luis Manuel González.
The official source specified that during a search, the authorities found several camouflaged and carefully tended plants.
In addition to the illicit cultivation, agents from the Ministry of the Interior (MININT) seized a handmade firearm.
As of the closing of this report, no further details about the case have emerged.
In July of this year, the Cuban police arrested a citizen in Holguín who was allegedly involved in marijuana trafficking.
In that case, the arrest occurred near Frank País International Airport as the individual was traveling by motorcycle with the merchandise tied to his groin.
A few months earlier, in September 2023, Cuban authorities arrested another young man in the city of Holguín, specifically in the Pueblo Nuevo neighborhood, with a plastic bottle containing plant material, another nylon package, and a 'marijuana cigarette,' as detailed at that time by Cazador-Cazado.
A month earlier, in August, another Cuban was arrested in Holguín for selling marijuana and hashish. In that case, the detainee lived in the La Quinta neighborhood of Holguín.
In recent years, Cuba has witnessed a troubling increase in drug consumption and trafficking, a phenomenon that, although it historically had a limited impact on the island due to strict surveillance, now poses a growing challenge.
Although the so-called "chemical" drugs have seen the greatest increase in consumption and trafficking, marijuana has also gained ground, especially among young people, who perceive it as a low-risk drug.
Frequently Asked Questions about Drug Trafficking in Holguín, Cuba
What happened in the recent marijuana trafficking case in Holguín?
A Cuban identified as Luis Manuel González was arrested following the discovery of a marijuana plantation on a state farm in the Las Minas neighborhood of Báguanos municipality. Authorities found several camouflaged plants and a homemade firearm.
What is the current situation of drug trafficking and consumption in Cuba?
In recent years, Cuba has experienced a concerning rise in drug use and trafficking, particularly among the youth. Marijuana and synthetic drugs have gained popularity. The government's strict surveillance has proven insufficient to manage this growing phenomenon.
How has the Cuban government responded to the increase in drug trafficking?
The Cuban government has acknowledged the rise in crime and drug-related offenses. In a recent speech, President Miguel Díaz-Canel confirmed the increase in addictions, violence, and delinquency in the country and emphasized the need to address these issues within a challenging socioeconomic context.
Are there any recent cases of drug trafficking in Holguín?
Yes, in recent months, several cases of drug trafficking have been reported in Holguín. In one incident, six people were arrested for trafficking marijuana and crack. These arrests reflect a growing pattern of drug trafficking and consumption in the province.
What measures are being taken to combat drug trafficking in Cuba?
Cuban authorities have intensified security operations and improved collaboration with the public to identify points of sale and distribution. However, the effectiveness of these measures remains questionable, given the increasing number of violations and the complexity of the issue.
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