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A police operation in the Cayo Hueso neighborhood of Centro Habana resulted in the arrest of a citizen from Cienfuegos for alleged drug trafficking, including crack, a powerful derivative of cocaine.
The arrest took place this Monday on Márquez González Street, between Neptuno and Concordia.
The individual was residing illegally on the premises and was caught attempting to sell illicit substances to a consumer, according to the official Facebook profile of Elizabeth Ferrer.
At the time of the arrest, a green capsule containing 15 crack rocks was found on him.
Subsequently, authorities discovered a stash in the ceiling of the entrance to the home, which contained 21 synthetic cannabinoid cigars.
The publication emphasized that "Cuba continues to fight against drugs intensely," and warned that "there will be no impunity for those involved in this scourge."
"It is important that we are all aware of the seriousness of the problem and work together to combat drug trafficking and consumption," concluded the official source.
The authorities have not provided official information regarding the case or details about the possible charges against the detainee.
What is "crack"?
Crack is a highly addictive drug derived from cocaine. It appears in the form of white crystals or rocks and is smoked in a pipe, producing an immediate but short-lived effect.
It is obtained by processing powdered cocaine with water and baking soda or ammonia. Unlike powdered cocaine, which is typically inhaled, crack is smoked, allowing the chemicals to reach the brain quickly, resulting in an intense euphoria in just a few seconds.
Its effects appear almost instantly, within 5 to 10 seconds after being inhaled, but their duration is short, lasting about 5 to 15 minutes. It induces a feeling of extreme pleasure and a boost of energy, but this is followed by a sharp decline that can lead to anxiety, paranoia, and depression.
Due to the intensity and brief duration of its effects, crack is highly addictive. Consumers often quickly develop a strong dependency, leading them to repeatedly use the drug over short periods.
Prolonged use of crack has serious health consequences. It can affect the central nervous system, cause heart attacks, strokes, and respiratory problems. Additionally, frequent use leads to cognitive decline and psychiatric issues, such as psychosis and severe depression.
Crack is one of the most dangerous drugs due to its high addictive potential and the serious harm it causes to physical and mental health.
The increase in police operations against drugs in Havana
The police operations against drug trafficking have significantly increased in Havana in recent days, according to reports from numerous government-friendly profiles on social media, which have shared data and images about the seizure of narcotics and arrests in various municipalities.
The authorities have seized not only drugs such as "the chemical," marijuana, or even cocaine, but also large sums of money and tools or materials that facilitate the production of these illegal substances.
The Cuban regime claims it has initiated a war against drug trafficking, supporting the rhetoric of zero tolerance towards drugs.
The Prime Minister, Manuel Marrero Cruz, emphasized in February during a public address that synthetic substances are being introduced into the country through "new methods and techniques" and that this phenomenon affects the country's security.
In the current context of population complaints and the increase in reports in independent media regarding the consumption of "the chemical" - the most widespread drug consumed in the country - the Cuban government proposed the creation of the National Drug Observatory (OND), an institution under the direction of the Ministry of Justice (MINJUS), responsible for monitoring and observing the drug phenomenon on the island.
Through an Early Warning System, they aim to identify new psychoactive substances and minimize the risks associated with their consumption and distribution.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Increase of Drug Trafficking in Cuba
What is crack and why is it so dangerous?
Crack is a highly addictive drug derived from cocaine, which is smoked in a pipe and produces an immediate but short-lived effect. Its effects are intense and brief, leading to frequent and compulsive use. Additionally, it can cause serious health issues, including heart attacks, strokes, and respiratory problems.
What measures is the Cuban government taking against drug trafficking?
The Cuban government has intensified police operations in various regions, especially in Havana, to combat drug trafficking. The establishment of the National Drug Observatory (OND) has been proposed, which will be overseen by the Ministry of Justice to monitor the phenomenon and establish an Early Warning System to identify new psychoactive substances and minimize the associated risks of their consumption and distribution.
What is "the chemical," and what are its effects on health?
"The chemical" is a synthetic cannabinoid designed to mimic the effects of marijuana, but it is significantly more potent and dangerous. Its immediate effects include euphoria, altered perception, nausea, tachycardia, and seizures. In the long term, its use can lead to anxiety, psychosis, hallucinations, and severe physical health damage such as kidney and liver failure.
What are the legal consequences of drug trafficking in Cuba?
In Cuba, the penalties for drug trafficking are severe. Sentences can include up to 30 years in prison, life imprisonment, or even the death penalty, depending on the severity of the crime and other circumstances such as international trafficking or the involvement of minors. Additionally, assets related to criminal activity may be confiscated.
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