Cuban filmmaker's home robbed in Havana

The report was filed immediately with the authorities. Lizette Vila and her family are emotionally affected, but they are in good physical condition.

Lizette Vila/Police in CubaPhoto © Screenshot/YouTube/CREART: Ministry of Culture of Cuba/CiberCuba

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The renowned audiovisual producer and social activist Lizette Vila was the victim of a theft at her home located in Reparto Nuevo Vedado, in Havana, during the early hours of last Saturday.

According to the communicator Sergio E. Cabrera via a post on Facebook, one or two individuals allegedly entered the premises—located at Calle Norte #44 between 35 and 35—and stole numerous valuable items.

Facebook Post/Sergio E. Cabrera

The report was immediately filed with the authorities, and law enforcement agents arrived at the scene.

Days after the incident, in the message authorized by Lizette and her family, Cabrera detailed that, fortunately, both she and her loved ones are in good physical condition, although they are emotionally affected by the uncertainty and fear that this type of incident brings.

In the message, the feeling of helplessness caused by these crimes is also emphasized and a call is made to protect the right to public tranquility, noting that so far the authorities have not provided an official response regarding the case.

Vila, born in Havana in 1949, is well known in the artistic community of the island as a filmmaker, TV and video documentarian, as well as a music advisor, among her extensive professional career.

Wave of thefts

A few days ago, it was reported that the theft of several cell phones on the same bus of the P-11 route, headed to Alamar in East Havana, resulted in the arrest of a man, although, paradoxically, the phones could not be recovered.

The incident occurred shortly before two in the afternoon on Tuesday, July 29. A search was conducted on all passengers after the bus was stopped at the Cuba and Chacón station in Old Havana.

At approximately 2:30 p.m., once the procedure was completed, passengers were allowed to reboard the vehicle to continue their journey. One individual was arrested, but the victims' belongings did not turn up.

While last Monday, a young man identified as Edrey Copello, 26 years old and resident of Calle 12 de Chicharrones, was captured by residents of Reparto Sueño, in Santiago de Cuba, while he was allegedly trying to snatch belongings from a person in broad daylight.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Wave of Thefts and Insecurity in Cuba

Who was the victim of the recent robbery in Havana?

The victim of the recent robbery in Havana was Lizette Vila, a well-known audiovisual producer and social activist. During the early hours of last Saturday, one or two individuals entered her home in the Nuevo Vedado neighborhood and stole numerous valuable items. Both she and her loved ones are physically well, but emotionally affected.

What is the current situation of security in Cuba?

In Cuba, there has been a concerning increase in criminal activity in recent years. Crime has risen in both urban and rural areas, becoming a constant threat to public safety. Thefts, assaults, and acts of vandalism are becoming increasingly frequent, creating a sense of insecurity and despair among the citizens.

How have the Cuban authorities responded to the rise in crime?

The response from Cuban authorities to the increase in crime has been criticized for its ineffectiveness. Despite reports and police intervention in some cases, the feeling of impunity and lack of effective action persists. Citizens have begun to take matters into their own hands, even resorting to vigilante justice in some instances.

What measures can citizens take to protect themselves from theft in Cuba?

To protect themselves from theft in Cuba, citizens must always remain vigilant and take additional precautions, such as avoiding carrying valuables in public, ensuring their homes and vehicles are properly secured, and reporting any suspicious behavior to the authorities. Furthermore, it is essential to stay informed about areas with higher crime rates and to avoid traveling alone at night.

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CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists committed to reporting on Cuban current affairs and topics of global interest. At CiberCuba, we work to deliver truthful news and critical analysis.