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A man was arrested in the province of Holguín carrying 85 cigarettes that contained prohibited chemical substances.
The arrest of Osmany González Medel took place in the locality of Pueblo Nuevo, late at night, when patrol officers intercepted the individual who was walking down the street, according to information published on the Facebook page Cazador-Cazado, associated with the Ministry of the Interior in Holguín.
The profile detailed that the fight against the trafficking of illicit substances is a priority for the authorities due to the negative impact these activities have on the peace and well-being of young people and families in the region.
"There's a lot at stake," he emphasized, highlighting the citizens' concerns regarding the escalation of such behaviors.
"The chemist" is a synthesized drug that has gained notoriety in Cuba due to its devastating effects and increasing consumption among the youth. It is a synthetic cannabinoid designed to mimic the effects of marijuana, but with significantly greater potency and higher risks.
The base of "the chemical" is cannabis, to which various dangerous substances are added. According to testimonies from consumers, this drug is prepared by mixing the herb with epilepsy pills, formaldehyde, and anesthesia for animals. The resulting mixture is dried and smoked in cigarettes similar to marijuana.
The effects of "the chemical" are immediate and severe. In the short term, it can cause euphoria, perceptual disturbances, nausea, tachycardia, seizures, and loss of muscle control.
In the long term, continued use can lead to disorders such as anxiety, psychosis, hallucinations, as well as renal, hepatic, and cardiac insufficiency.
The variability in the concentration of its components, due to its clandestine production, increases the risk of intoxications and overdoses.
The low cost and rapid effects of "the chemical" have facilitated its proliferation among young Cubans, raising concerns in both society and the authorities.
Multiple incidents have been reported of individuals under its effects, displaying erratic behaviors, some of which have been captured in videos circulating on social media.
In response, the authorities have intensified operations against the trafficking of this substance. For example, in September 2024, 22 people were arrested in Havana for selling "the chemical" in paper form.
The penalties for those who traffic this drug can reach up to 30 years in prison, life imprisonment, or even the death penalty, according to the Cuban Penal Code.
Testimonies and recent cases
The testimonies of young people affected by "the chemical" are alarming. Many describe a rapid dependence and a significant loss of control over their lives. A young person in rehabilitation shared: "I started by using it with friends, but then I began to consume it alone. I was hooked for days. I lost many things... I lost my family."
Additionally, tragic incidents have been reported, such as the death of a young man in Havana after falling from a rooftop while under the influence of "the chemical."
Frequently Asked Questions about Drug Trafficking and Consumption in Cuba
What is "the chemical" and why is it so dangerous?
"The chemical" is a synthetic cannabinoid designed to mimic the effects of marijuana, but it is much more potent and dangerous. It is produced clandestinely with toxic ingredients such as formaldehyde and veterinary anesthetics, which increases the risk of poisoning and overdose deaths. Its effects are devastating for the physical and mental health of young Cubans.
How does "the chemical" affect young Cubans?
The consumption of "the chemical" among Cuban youth generates serious physical and mental effects, such as seizures, loss of muscular control, anxiety, psychosis, and hallucinations. In the long term, it can lead to renal, hepatic, and cardiac failure. The rapid addiction and low initial cost make it especially dangerous.
What measures is the Cuban government taking to combat drug trafficking?
The Cuban government has intensified security operations and has promoted collaboration with citizens to identify points of sale and distribution of drugs. However, the effectiveness of these measures remains questionable due to the increasing number of violations and the complexity of the issue.
What are the legal penalties in Cuba for trafficking in "the chemical"?
In Cuba, the trafficking of "el químico" can carry penalties of up to 30 years in prison, life imprisonment, or even the death penalty, according to the Cuban Penal Code. Furthermore, assets related to the criminal activity, such as houses and vehicles, can be confiscated.
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