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Cuban authorities arrested eight people in the municipality of Jobabo, province of Las Tunas, for allegedly being involved in the extraction and illegal trafficking of gold dust.
The Provincial Government of the Popular Power of Las Tunas reported on Facebook that the operation was carried out by investigation forces and internal order, following prior complaints from the public and inspections conducted by government authorities and the Party.
During the intervention, various electrical equipment and tools used for illegal mining were seized, including electric power plants, current generators, water pumping turbines, electric jackhammers, as well as a "trómer," a homemade mill used for crushing stones to extract gold.
The detainees are being investigated for alleged crimes related to illegal mining activities, which are specified in the Cuban Penal Code.
Authorities urged the public to report such illegal activities, justifying this request by stating that illegal mining, besides being a crime, causes environmental damage and poses risks to the safety and health of individuals.
Illegal gold mining in Cuba is a problem that has persisted for years, affecting various regions of the country and generating economic and environmental consequences.
In June 2021, a fire in the Alejandro de Humboldt National Park was attributed to illegal mining in the area, highlighting the negative impact of this practice on the Cuban ecosystem. That same month, authorities prosecuted 115 individuals involved in illegal activities related to gold mining, demonstrating the extent of the problem.
In December 2022, law enforcement intervened in an illegal gold mine in Camagüey, which reflected the persistence of these activities despite control operations.
Just a month later, in January 2023, a similar case was reported in a mine in Ciego de Ávila, where illegal exploitation of the mineral continued, indicating that illegal mining remained a source of income for groups engaged in this practice.
Despite government efforts to eradicate illegal mining, these events illustrate that the problem persists and that the gold rush in Cuba has been a recurring phenomenon for years, driven by the economic crisis and lack of job opportunities.
Frequently asked questions about illegal mining in Las Tunas and the criminal situation in Cuba
What happened in Las Tunas regarding illegal mining?
Eight people were arrested in the municipality of Jobabo, Las Tunas, for engaging in the illegal extraction and trafficking of gold dust. During the operation, authorities confiscated equipment used in illegal mining, such as generators and jackhammers. The arrests were the result of citizen reports and government controls.
What is the situation of illegal mining in Cuba?
Illegal mining in Cuba is a significant problem that not only constitutes a crime but also causes environmental damage and poses risks to the safety and health of individuals. The authorities in the country have intensified operations to combat these illicit activities, urging the collaboration of the population to report them.
How is illegal mining related to other crimes in Cuba?
Illegal mining is part of a broader context of criminal activities in Cuba, which include drug trafficking, theft, and smuggling. Cuban authorities have intensified operations to combat various forms of crime, reflecting a social and economic crisis in the country.
What are the legal consequences of illegal mining in Cuba?
Those involved in illegal mining activities face charges under the Cuban Penal Code. This can result in imprisonment and other penalties, depending on the severity of the crime and the specific circumstances of each case. Authorities emphasize the importance of citizen cooperation in addressing this issue.
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