A Swedish tourist was the victim of a backpack theft at the Varadero resort in the province of Matanzas this Tuesday and is offering a reward for its return, along with at least some of the personal items it contains.
David Grahn, a Swedish kitesurfer on vacation in Cuba for the third time, reported the theft in a Facebook post, where he asked for help in recovering his bag, which was stolen the night before at the beach near the Laguna Azul hotel in Varadero.
"Stolen today in Varadero. This entire bag containing many irreplaceable personal items was stolen today on the beach outside the Laguna Azul hotel in Varadero," Grahn reported.
The tourist explained that the backpack contained some valuable items, in addition to cash, a credit card, and a driver's license, "which matter less to me and can be replaced with a lot of effort and time," he noted.
However, he warned: "What I cannot replace are the gifts and personal items of my girlfriend and deceased mother, clothing, a backpack, sunglasses, irreplaceable headphones, personal belongings, as well as the bag itself."
"I am offering a reward and would be happy to pay for my bag to be returned with certain items inside," said the tourist, as he asked people to spread the word and share the post.
"I won't inform the police if these items are returned," Grahn stated, noting that this is his third trip to Cuba in winter (the peak tourist season on the island).
"I always praise Cuba, I love it here, and I love the people here. I rent a house for many weeks, spend the money I earned with so much effort with the local Cuban people, and I am learning the language," he expressed.
The tourist provided their WhatsApp number (+46704791952) for contact and indicated that they can also be reached via text message through Facebook.
In the comments on the post, several Cubans wished Grahn good luck in retrieving his belongings and expressed their embarrassment over incidents like this occurring in Cuba.
"At a loss for words, the decay, the lack of respect; education, humility, and I don't know how many more values our society will lose. I hope she finds her belongings," wrote a woman.
"What's happening to Cubans is really too much; it's very distressing. I'm truly at a loss for words," lamented a young man.
"Things like this tarnish the reputation of Cuban society. It's a shame that her belongings have gone missing. God willing, she will find them, as they hold great value for her. Blessings," said a young woman.
Some comments warned about the rise in crime and insecurity in the country, where criminals are even willing to kill people to steal a scooter.
Tourists have also fallen victim to thefts and assaults in Cuba in recent years. A Canadian woman had her luggage stolen during her stay at the Marea del Portillo hotel in Granma province last September. The victim filed a report with the hotel management and the police, but as of the time the news was published, no resolution had been reached.
In November, a tourist was attacked on the street by a young man who snatched her phone in the Los Olmos neighborhood of Santiago de Cuba.
Also, in a neighborhood of that eastern city, a foreigner was stabbed by assailants who intended to steal his scooter last April.
A few days later, an Italian tourist was the victim of a armed robbery by three Cubans while traveling through the province of Sancti Spíritus in a rental car, headed towards eastern Cuba.
Frequently Asked Questions About Theft of Belongings from Tourists in Cuba
What happened to a Swedish tourist in Varadero?
The Swedish tourist David Grahn was the victim of a theft in Varadero, where a backpack containing valuable and irreplaceable personal items was stolen from him. He offered a reward for its return, highlighting the sentimental value of some of the stolen items.
How has crime affected tourism in Cuba?
Crime in Cuba has negatively impacted tourism, with several reports of thefts and assaults against tourists. Incidents such as the robbery of a Swedish tourist in Varadero and other similar cases create mistrust and can affect the international perception of safety on the island.
What measures can tourists take to protect their belongings in Cuba?
To protect their belongings, tourists in Cuba should be cautious and take additional security measures. It is advisable not to leave valuables unattended, to use hotel safes, and to stay aware of their surroundings. Additionally, having copies of important documents and being informed about procedures in case of theft can be helpful.
What options does a tourist have if they're robbed in Cuba?
If a tourist is a victim of theft in Cuba, they should report the incident to the management of the location where it occurred and to the national police. Posting about the incident on social media may help garner support and visibility. It is also advisable to contact the consulate of their country for additional assistance.
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