Cuba News Today, January 8, 2025: Explosion Shakes Military Warehouse in Holguín, Finauto Launches Car Catalog, Tragic Accident Leaves One Dead in Jagüey Grande

Explosion at the military warehouse in Holguín leaves missing and injured after munitions caught fire. Finauto launches a car catalog in Cuba, but high prices limit access. Fatal accident in Jagüey Grande.

Explosión en Melones, municipio Freyre, Holguín. © Collage Facebook / Edmundo Dantés Junior
Explosion in Melones, Freyre municipality, Holguín. Photo © Collage Facebook / Edmundo Dantés Junior

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Today, Wednesday, January 8, 2025, the news from Cuba brings us important and varied updates. A massive explosion shook a military warehouse in Holguín, specifically in the town of Melones. The incident, which caused a significant fire while aging ammunition was being sorted, has resulted in a provisional toll of deceased and injured, with a concerning number of 13 people reported missing, including recruits from the Military Service. Authorities remain alert and more than 1,200 people have been evacuated as a precautionary measure.

On another note, the Italian company Finauto revealed its new catalog of cars available on the island, showcasing models from KIA and SsangYong. Although the government has modified the import regulations to modernize the automotive fleet, the high prices of vehicles remain beyond the reach of most Cubans. Despite attempts to ease access, owning a car continues to be a luxury on the island.

In another tragic event, a traffic accident in Jagüey Grande, Matanzas, resulted in the death of a 33-year-old man, leaving several others injured. The victim was well-known and respected in his community, which has caused deep sorrow among his loved ones.

Additionally, the value of foreign currencies is experiencing a new increase in the Cuban informal market. The dollar is quoted at 330 CUP and the euro at 340 CUP, reflecting the growing demand for hard currency in the face of a Freely Convertible Currency (MLC) that continues to decline.

Finally, crime in the country does not cease, and two individuals were captured in Havana after stealing a motorcycle, thanks to the vehicle's GPS tracking.

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CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists committed to reporting on current Cuban events and global issues. At CiberCuba, we strive to provide accurate news and critical analysis.