More than five million pesos stolen from communal office in Santiago de Cuba

The assailants attacked and threatened five guards, one of whom was armed. So far, neither the authorities nor the state media have provided information about the incident.

Robbery in Santiago de CubaPhoto © Facebook/Yosmany Mayeta Labrada

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Six armed thieves broke into the municipal headquarters of Servicios Comunales in Santiago de Cuba early Thursday morning and made off with over five million Cuban pesos (CUP).

The independent journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada revealed what happened at 806 Corona Street, between Santa Rita and San Carlos, and detailed that the assailants attacked and threatened five guards, one of whom was armed.

Through his page on the social network Facebook, the activist also shared statements from a neighbor, mentioning that “they beat the guards quite a bit and threatened them with a gun”.

Facebook post/Yosmany Mayeta Labrada

“A guard who was less injured was able to notify the security chief, but the others were severely beaten,” the source told the communicator based in the United States.

The theft has directly impacted the employees of the organization, as some have gathered in the surrounding areas demanding information about the payment of their salaries, after spending the entire month cleaning the streets of Santiago.

“Mayeta, this is the last straw. We came to collect our salaries today and now this situation: who will pay us for our hard work after sweeping all month?” cited a worker gathered with other colleagues in a corner in the area.

The police are in the cordoned-off area, conducting investigations and looking for fingerprints in the entrance area used by the assailants, who are believed to have entered through the back of the building.

So far, neither the authorities nor the state media have provided information about the incident.

On the past Monday, a truck belonging to a state entity was stolen in Havana. The incident occurred around 4:00 a.m., raising concerns in the transportation sector and among state workers who fear reprisals due to the loss of state property.

The stolen vehicle is a Kamaz truck, with a white cab and a purple stripe on the top and a blue body. It has six rear wheels, foldable metal side panels, and plates with the IMAR insignia on the front.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Increase in Theft and Violence in Santiago de Cuba

What happened in the municipal office of Santiago de Cuba?

Six armed thieves broke into the Municipal Office of Community Services in Santiago de Cuba early in the morning and stole more than five million Cuban pesos. The assailants assaulted and threatened five security guards, one of whom was armed. This incident has directly impacted the employees who were expecting to receive their salaries.

How has the community reacted to the increase in crime in Cuba?

The community has expressed its outrage and concern over the rising crime rates. On several occasions, citizens have chosen to take justice into their own hands, capturing and beating criminals before handing them over to the police. This situation reflects the frustration of the population towards police inefficiency and the prevailing feeling of insecurity.

What recent cases of theft and violence have been reported in Santiago de Cuba?

In addition to the theft at the municipal office, robberies have been reported in hospitals and assaults on security personnel. Recently, a thief was beaten by a crowd after being caught stealing, reflecting the desperation of the population. These incidents indicate a pattern of increasing insecurity and violence in the region.

What actions are the authorities taking against crime in Santiago de Cuba?

The authorities' response has been inadequate according to the community's perception. Although arrests have been made, the population criticizes the lack of effective actions to combat crime and prevent future incidents. Distrust towards the authorities continues to grow due to the number of unresolved crimes.

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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.