A surprise operation carried out at the meat facility in Palmira, in the Cienfuegos province, uncovered a corruption case involving workers at the facility, who were concealing a refrigerator full of meat.
The official Facebook profile "Las Cosas de Fernanda" reported that specialized forces inspected the production line and deboning process, finding irregularities in the records of meat intended for social consumption.
During the inspection, the officials discovered a large quantity of meat hidden in a refrigerator, ready to be taken by two workers identified as Yunier and Adriel.
According to the account affiliated with the regime, those involved intended to steal the meat at the end of their workday to then sell it on the black market, "affecting the hospital and social programs that rely on these supplies." This statement stands in stark contrast to the flood of criticism regarding the food provided in these centers.
Both employees now face legal, criminal, and administrative actions due to the seriousness of the events.
In a sarcastic manner, the official profile remarked, "We thought that was off-limits," alluding to the idea that illegal activities seemed to be the only thing keeping the meat operation running.
This finding reinforces the accusations regarding the diversion of state resources amid the food crisis the country is experiencing, worsening the situation for a population that is already facing serious challenges in accessing basic foods.
However, the theft of beef finds a steady market in a population desperate to access this food, which is almost nonexistent in most households due to its scarcity and high prices.
In August, the state sold beef bones to the public for making soup and alleviating hunger, under unsanitary conditions documented by Cubanet at an agricultural fair in Old Havana, highlighting the difficulties faced by citizens in accessing this specific food item.
On the other hand, a total of 1,615 Cuban citizens have been sanctioned in 2024 for activities related to the illegal slaughter of livestock and the trafficking of its meat, reported the official newspaper Granma.
Ninety percent of those prosecuted received custodial sentences, with 78 percent of them facing penalties of up to 15 years, another example that demonstrates the existence of a constant market for beef.
Frequently Asked Questions about Meat Diversion in Cienfuegos and the Food Crisis in Cuba
What happened at the Cienfuegos meat processing plant?
In the meat processing plant of Palmira, in Cienfuegos, a hidden freezer filled with meat intended for the black market was discovered, implicating workers who planned to steal the meat for illegal sale. This incident is yet another example of resource diversion amid the food crisis in Cuba.
How does corruption in the food sector affect the Cuban population?
Corruption in the food sector, such as the meat theft in Cienfuegos, severely impacts the Cuban population, which is already struggling to access basic food items. This situation worsens with the sale of bones under unsanitary conditions, while beef is practically non-existent in households.
Why is meat so scarce in Cuba?
The scarcity of meat in Cuba is due to several factors, including the prioritization of meat supplies for the tourism sector and the lack of resources for proper production. Furthermore, theft and illegal trafficking of meat exacerbate the situation, leaving the population with limited and low-quality options.
What measures are being taken against meat theft in Cuba?
Cuban authorities have intensified operations against meat theft, implementing legal, penal, and administrative measures against those involved. However, the effectiveness of these measures is questionable, as the black market remains a consistent source of meat for the population.
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