The General Customs of the Republic (AGR) of Cuba detected more than 500 cases of arms and drug trafficking by the end of May 2024, reflecting a potential security issue on the island.
In total, 520 infractions related to the illegal import of pneumatic weapons, ammunition, and other personal defense devices were identified.
Additionally, 23 cases of drug trafficking and 193 of drug consumption were recorded, including marijuana, cocaine, and synthetic cannabinoids.
The Deputy Chief of AGR, José Luis Muñoz Toca, told the official press that these findings indicate an increase in the production of new substances and a rise in smuggling.
The official pointed out that, despite the lack of customs offices in all provinces, a cross-border traffic of over 13 million Cuban pesos was detected, surpassing the previous year's figure by 8 million.
The organization faces serious challenges due to the diversity and complexity of the traffickers' operating modes, as well as the lack of qualified personnel, exacerbated by migration to other sectors.
La AGR tries to combat these threats through technological modernization and continuous training of personnel, although these efforts seem insufficient given the magnitude of the problem.
Yamila Martínez Morales, deputy chief of the AGR, emphasized the need to improve cooperation with border entities and strengthen management systems. The effectiveness of these measures remains questionable, given the increasing number of detected infractions.
The National School of Customs Training continues to play a crucial role in the training of new agents, but the reality shows that there is still much to be done to ensure a truly safe and efficient customs in Cuba.
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