The Cuban regime deployed a police operation in several areas of Havana on Friday night, in the midst of the blackout that left the Island in the dark.
The independent media CubaNet reported that "the Black Berets are patrolling various parts of the city. That is their response: to create panic."
Similarly, independent journalist Camila Acosta reported that police patrols were circling the city amid the energy collapse, reinforcing the atmosphere of tension and uncertainty in the Cuban capital.
The images and reports shared on social media show police vehicles patrolling dark streets. This deployment of special forces, used on previous occasions to suppress demonstrations, has raised alarm among citizens, who fear an increase in repression against any attempt to protest.
In contrast, the Facebook user Ramón Leyva Morales defended the police mobilization, arguing that “in light of the new interruption of the National Electric System, our police officers are on the streets. In the midst of darkness, they are the light that prevents accidents, guarantees order, and confronts indiscipline with professionalism and courage. Their sacrifice and dedication, away from their families and under challenging conditions, deserve all our respect and gratitude. Let us remain calm, respect the rules, and support those who protect us.”
However, this version contrasts with the warnings that the police presence is not solely aimed at citizen security, but also at controlling and intimidating the population in the face of possible spontaneous protests.
The interruption of the electricity service occurred shortly after 8:00 PM on Friday and, according to the Ministry of Energy and Mines, was caused by a malfunction at the Diezmero substation, located on the outskirts of Havana, which resulted in a significant loss of generation in the western part of the country, leading to the collapse of the National Electric System (SEN).
This blackout adds to a series of power outages that have impacted the country in recent months, reflecting the severe crisis facing the electrical sector in Cuba.
The prolonged blackouts and increasing repression have fueled social discontent in Cuba.
In the last three years, various spontaneous protests have emerged in several locations across the country due to the economic crisis, shortages of food and medicine, and poor living conditions.
The government's response has been to tighten surveillance and control, using the police and rapid response brigades to deter any expression of discontent.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Blackout and Police Mobilization in Cuba
Why was there a general blackout in Havana on March 14, 2025?
The blackout was caused by a malfunction at the Diezmero substation, located on the outskirts of Havana, which led to a collapse of the National Electric System (SEN) in the western part of the country. This incident is part of a series of blackouts that reflect the energy crisis affecting Cuba.
What was the Cuban regime's response to the general blackout?
The Cuban regime responded to the blackout with a police deployment in various areas of Havana. This operation included patrols by special forces, known for suppressing demonstrations, which caused alarm among citizens. The mobilization was seen as an attempt to control and intimidate the population in anticipation of possible protests.
How has the energy crisis affected the Cuban population?
The energy crisis in Cuba has resulted in prolonged blackouts that impact daily life for the population. Cubans are facing challenges in food storage, access to basic services, and an atmosphere of uncertainty that has fueled social discontent and prompted spontaneous protests in various areas.
What impact have the protests in Cuba due to power outages had?
The protests in Cuba, driven by power outages, have been met with repression by the authorities. The police mobilization and the arrests of demonstrators highlight the regime's strategy to control social discontent, which has led to criticism regarding the respect for human rights on the island.
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