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A private truck transporting 88 bags of local rice was stopped at kilometer 141 of the National Highway, near Jagüey Grande, Matanzas.
According to the pro-government Facebook profile "Con Todos La Victoria," the shipment lacked legal documentation to verify its origin or ownership and did not have authorization from the Agriculture Department or a license for self-employment (TCP).
The investigations identified the suspect as Raciel Santana Martínez, who already had a criminal record for theft.
Additionally, the regime's allied profile emphasized that the rice was intended for resale in Havana, where it would be sold "at exorbitant prices," they stated.
The case reflects the Cuban government's intention to convey the idea that it is taking action against crime and corruption, especially concerning a product as scarce as rice.
This food, which is currently sold at high prices, is used as an example to create the impression that efforts are being made to curb the speculation of basic food items in the country.
Last Wednesday, as part of the Cuban regime's campaign against illegality, in an effort by leader Miguel Díaz-Canel to project an image of action against crime, authorities recently seized two trucks loaded with 15 tons of rice in Cienfuegos.
The official Facebook profile "Las Cosas de Fernanda" reported that, as part of efforts to tackle illegal activities in the municipality of Aguada de Pasajeros, authorities intercepted two trucks carrying a total of 322 bags of rice, amounting to 15 tons.
At the same time, the regime has repeatedly demonstrated its inability to ensure the food distributed through the stores using the ration book.
Last Thursday, the government of Las Tunas announced that it will only guarantee the delivery of two pounds of rice per consumer in December.
According to Yunier Batista, director of the Wholesale Food Company, the rice shortage has been justified by stating that only two pounds are being sold per consumer, pending delivery from November, reported the official outlet Tiempo 21 on its Facebook profile.
To make matters worse, it was announced that in the coming days, another two pounds would be distributed, but without specifying whether these correspond to November or December, leaving families uncertain about their food supply during such a significant time as the end of the year.
Frequently Asked Questions about Rice Seizures and the Fight Against Corruption in Cuba
Why was a man arrested with bags of rice in Matanzas?
The man was arrested for transporting 88 bags of rice without legal documentation, intended for resale in Havana at inflated prices. This action is part of the Cuban government's fight against corruption and the black market for basic food items such as rice.
How does the rice shortage affect the Cuban population?
The scarcity of rice severely affects the Cuban population, limiting access to a basic and essential food in their daily diet. This situation forces many people to turn to the black market, where prices are unaffordable for most.
What measures is the Cuban government taking to combat the illegal resale of food?
The Cuban government has intensified operations to seize illegal food shipments and apprehend those responsible. However, these actions have been criticized for not addressing the root causes of the shortage, such as the lack of adequate production and distribution.
What is the perception of the Cuban population regarding government measures against corruption?
The Cuban population expresses frustration and discontent with government measures, viewing them as ineffective and unjust. Many believe that these measures do not address the structural problems that lead to food shortages and exacerbate social tensions.
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