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The Customs of Cuba thwarted an attempt to illegally smuggle two kilograms of gold in four ingots hidden in luggage, during a check at the José Martí International Airport in Havana, authorities reported on Sunday.
The First Deputy Chief of the General Customs of the Republic (AGR), William Pérez González, announced in a brief statement on the social media platform X that agents from the organization detected and prevented "the illegal extraction of 2 kg of gold bullion hidden in a double bottom of a luggage at Havana airport."
Pérez warned that "the case has been reported, and those involved will face criminal charges" and emphasized "the training and insight of the officers" as a "strength."
In his preliminary report, the official did not disclose the names and nationalities of those involved in the incident or the destination to which they intended to transfer the gold bars. The origin of the precious metal has also not been revealed.
The Cuban government is launching an offensive against illegal mining to extract gold and other deposits, an activity that has gained momentum in various regions of the country in recent years.
Recently, the authorities announced the dismantling of camps and the arrest of individuals involved in illegal mining in the provinces of Villa Clara and Las Tunas.
Two people were detained in Santa Clara, after the police discovered an illegal camp at kilometer 7 of the Maleza highway this month. They also seized the tools and equipment used for gold and other mineral extraction, including a mill.
In the municipality of Jobabo, in Las Tunas, eight individuals were arrested, accused of engaging in the extraction and illegal trafficking of gold dust. The detainees were found in possession of electrical equipment and tools used for mining activities, such as electric plants, current generators, water pumping turbines, electric demolition hammers, and a “trómer” (a handmade mill used for crushing stones to obtain gold).
Despite government efforts to eradicate illegal mining, recent events show that the problem persists and that gold fever in Cuba has been a recurring phenomenon for years, driven by the economic crisis and a lack of job opportunities.
The Cuban Customs also announced this Sunday the confiscation of 30,000 “fake” dollars, for props, at the Juan Gualberto Gómez International Airport in Varadero, Matanzas. The bills were marked with the caption "For Motion Pictures Purposes."
Frequently Asked Questions about Gold Trafficking and Illegal Mining in Cuba
How did the Customs of Cuba detect the attempt to take gold out of the country?
The Cuban Customs detected hidden gold in a double bottom of a suitcase during an inspection at the José Martí International Airport in Havana. Customs agents were able to identify and prevent the illegal extraction of four gold bars.
What actions is the Cuban government taking against illegal mining?
The Cuban government has intensified operations to dismantle illegal mining camps in various provinces. People have been arrested and equipment used for illegal mining has been confiscated, as happened in Villa Clara and Las Tunas. Illegal mining is a persistent problem that the government is trying to combat through police operations and stricter controls.
What are the legal consequences for those who attempt to illegally extract gold from Cuba?
Those involved in the illegal gold trade in Cuba are facing criminal charges. The Customs Department of Cuba has reported the cases, and those implicated will have to answer to justice, which could lead to prison sentences and other penalties under the Cuban Penal Code.
What impact does illegal mining have on the environment in Cuba?
Illegal mining in Cuba causes significant damage to the environment. This activity affects natural resources and can lead to ecological disasters, such as what happened in Alejandro de Humboldt Natural Park, where a fire was attributed to illicit mining. These impacts have prompted authorities to strengthen their efforts against illegal mining.
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