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A Cuban man was arrested on the night of Sunday, December 22, after being caught committing a robbery with a knife near the entrance of the Línea tunnel in the Plaza de la Revolución municipality of Havana.
According to the official profile from the Ministry of Interior, El Cubano Fiel, the suspect identified his victim while she was walking in the area. He then approached her, threatened her with a knife, and took a bag that contained two cell phones.
Eyewitnesses reported that the incident occurred around 10 PM, added the source, responsible for justifying the controversial actions of the Cuban police.
After committing the robbery, the man, whose identity has not been revealed, attempted to flee on foot but was quickly intercepted by a nearby police patrol. The stolen bag containing the phones was recovered and returned to the victim.
This incident occurs within a context of growing concern about safety in Cuba, where multiple similar incidents have been reported in recent months.
For example, in November 2024, three individuals were arrested for stealing essential goods from a store in Havana, highlighting the state's reliance on citizen collaboration to address the rise in crime.
In Santiago de Cuba, residents apprehended and bound a thief who attempted to rob an elderly man, reflecting the growing trend of the population to take matters into their own hands in response to crime.
Frequently Asked Questions about Crime and Safety in Cuba
How does the Cuban police respond in cases of robberies involving bladed weapons?
The Cuban police respond quickly in some cases, such as the recent incident near the Línea tunnel in Havana, where a thief was swiftly apprehended after committing a knife robbery. However, the public often criticizes the overall effectiveness of law enforcement, as they do not always succeed in curbing the rising tide of crime.
What is the role of citizenship in security in Cuba?
In response to rising crime and the perception of police ineffectiveness, the Cuban public has started to take justice into their own hands. In many instances, neighbors apprehend criminals and turn them over to the police, reflecting a widespread distrust in the country's security institutions.
What factors contribute to the increase in crime in Cuba?
The economic crisis currently facing Cuba is a key factor contributing to the rise in crime. The lack of basic resources and the increase in inflation have led to a surge in thefts, assaults, and other offenses, creating an atmosphere of insecurity and concern among the population.
What measures has the Cuban government taken in response to the rise in crime?
The Cuban government, through official statements, has acknowledged the rise in violence and crime in the country. However, the concrete actions to mitigate this situation seem insufficient in the eyes of the public, who continue to face high levels of insecurity in their daily lives.
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