Elderly woman recovering after brutal assault during blackout in Camagüey

This violent incident is a reflection of the growing insecurity that Cubans face, especially in the context of the prolonged blackouts affecting the country.

Martha CossioPhoto © Facebook/Jose Luis Tan Estrada

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Martha Cossio, an 83-year-old woman who was brutally beaten during a robbery amidst a blackout in Camagüey, is still recovering from her injuries and showing notable improvement, according to her family.

The attack occurred at the beginning of this month when criminals assaulted her to snatch her cellphone. The brutality of the assault sparked widespread outrage on social media, where images of the victim with a visibly swollen face covered in bruises were shared.

However, in a recent update on Facebook, independent journalist José Luis Tan Estrada confirmed that the woman "is doing much better physically" and that the inflammation has decreased.

Facebook post/José Luis Estrada

This violent incident reflects the increasing insecurity faced by Cubans, particularly in the context of the prolonged blackouts affecting the country.

The lack of electricity, combined with the limited police presence and the economic crisis, has led to an increase in violent crimes, leaving the population in an extremely vulnerable situation. Older adults, in particular, have become easy targets for attackers.

In recent months, numerous cases of theft and assaults during power outages have been reported. Although there are no official statistics on the increase in crime during these periods, citizen testimonies highlight a deterioration in public safety.

Despite the constant complaints, the authorities have faced significant criticism for their inaction and the lack of effective strategies to curb the wave of crime.

Meanwhile, Cubans continue to use social media as a tool to highlight these events and demand answers. The story of Martha Cossio serves as a reminder of the danger many citizens face daily in a country where crisis and insecurity are on the rise.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Increase in Insecurity and Blackouts in Cuba

How is Martha Cossio's health after the assault in Camagüey?

Martha Cossio, the 83-year-old woman who was brutally assaulted during a blackout in Camagüey, is recovering from her injuries and is showing remarkable improvement, according to her relatives. Although she still feels pain and has a hemorrhage in her right eye, she is stable at home.

What impact do power outages have on the safety of Cubans?

Blackouts in Cuba have increased insecurity, creating an environment conducive to thefts and assaults. The lack of electricity, combined with the limited police presence and the economic crisis, has left the population, especially elderly people, in a state of extreme vulnerability.

What actions have the Cuban authorities taken in response to the wave of violence?

Despite the increase in violence, the Cuban authorities have been heavily criticized for their inaction and the lack of effective strategies to address these crimes. There have been no reported concrete actions to improve public safety, despite the ongoing complaints from the public.

What role do social media play in denouncing violence in Cuba?

Social media has become a crucial tool for shedding light on violence in Cuba. Citizens use these platforms to share their experiences and demand responses from the authorities, creating public pressure regarding the situation in the country.

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CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists committed to reporting on Cuban current affairs and topics of global interest. At CiberCuba, we work to deliver truthful news and critical analysis.

CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists committed to reporting on Cuban current affairs and topics of global interest. At CiberCuba, we work to deliver truthful news and critical analysis.