A violent incident occurred this Friday at the La Cuevita public market in the San Miguel del Padrón municipality of Havana, when an inspector attacked a vendor with a knife. This event takes place amid a national campaign focused on the prevention and combat of crime, corruption, illegal activities, and social indiscipline.
Alex Fernández reported in the Facebook group "Food Delivery in Havana" that the incident resulted in the vendor's death.
However, among the comments on the post, Arnaldo Núñez's stands out, as he clarified: "My cousin was the injured young man, but thank God he is out of danger. Thank you for your support; this guy is trying to shift the blame."
An internet user named Yami La Dura stated that she witnessed the violent incident: "I saw everything and recorded it; it was the inspector's fault, he lunged a bayonet at his neck. It was all very horrifying, I still feel the pressure on the ground and my nerves are on edge."
Some people questioned in the same post the fact that the inspector was carrying a knife.
In that regard, Annie Aguilera Tamayo expressed: “Because the majority are criminals, unprepared individuals. That's what this country produces... criminals, thieves, scoundrels. There is no longer any staff available in any establishment, neither in schools nor in hospitals. We have nothing left. Furthermore, due to necessity and hunger, there is also brutality and savagery.”
This is not the first time that violent incidents involve vendors and inspectors.
In August, an inspector from the Inspection Directorate of Las Tunas was assaulted by a vendor while attempting to sanction him, reported the Administration Council in that area.
According to the informational note issued by the agency, the inspector, identified as Manuel Vilches García, "was conducting a control action on a self-employed worker in Popular Council 2 of the municipal seat, detecting several violations committed by the offender."
Last Tuesday, several residents of Santiago clashed with uniformed officers from the National Police due to the recent wave of product seizures and excessive fines imposed on street vendors.
In a video posted by journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada on the social media platform Facebook, several people can be seen reacting with indignation to these unjustified actions against self-employed workers, including those known as "carretilleros."
The current "crusade" taking place in Cuba is part of a national effort to prevent and combat crime, corruption, illegal activities, and social misconduct, promoted by the leader Miguel Díaz-Canel in an attempt to divert attention away from the recent scandals involving Sandro Castro, the grandson of dictator Fidel Castro, who celebrated his birthday while the people are suffering from an energy crisis.
Frequently Asked Questions about Violence and Repression in Cuba
What happened at the La Cuevita market in Havana?
At the La Cuevita market, an inspector attacked a vendor with a knife in an incident that reflects the rising tension between authorities and self-employed workers in Cuba. This event occurs within a context of governmental repression against what are considered social and economic indiscretions.
What is the current situation of violence in Cuba?
Cuba is experiencing a significant rise in violence and crime. The incidence of thefts, assaults, and attacks has become increasingly common, impacting both workers and ordinary citizens. The situation has worsened due to the economic crisis and the ineffectiveness of law enforcement.
How is the economic crisis affecting security in Cuba?
The economic crisis in Cuba has worsened public insecurity. The lack of resources and rising desperation have led to an increase in crime, while the authorities prioritize the repression of independent workers instead of addressing the basic needs of the population.
What measures is the Cuban government taking in response to the rising crime rate?
The government has intensified a campaign of repression under the pretext of preventing crime and corruption, but the measures are seen as insufficient and misdirected. The official response has been criticized for its ineffectiveness and for focusing more on repressing the informal economy than on directly combating crime.
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