A passenger in Varadero was arrested with drugs hidden in a shampoo bottle

The case adds to other recent incidents where drugs have been attempted to be smuggled in diapers, flip-flops, and everyday products, raising alarms about new strategies in drug trafficking in Cuba.

Drugs hidden in a shampoo bottlePhoto © X/Wiliam Pérez González

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A passenger was apprehended at the Juan Gualberto Gómez International Airport in Varadero after it was discovered that he was carrying hashish hidden inside a shampoo bottle, as confirmed by a senior official source.

The discovery was reported by the first deputy chief of the General Customs of the Republic, William Pérez González, via the social network X, where he wrote: "#CubanCustoms detects drugs for personal use at Varadero airport, hidden inside a shampoo bottle. The hashish found was in the form of stones and crushed. The corresponding strict measures were applied #AgainstDrugsWeWin #SafeBorders."

Although the identity of the detainee has not been disclosed, it is believed that the passenger intended to enter the country when he was intercepted by customs agents during a routine check.

This attempt at drug trafficking adds to a growing wave of cases detected in Cuban airports, where authorities have strengthened controls to combat the increasingly ingenious methods used by those attempting to evade the law. From hidden compartments in suitcases to pills disguised as candy.

In recent weeks, Cuban Customs has detected several cases that show how drug traffickers are resorting to increasingly creative methods to attempt to introduce drugs into the country.

One of them was the detection of 31 sheets soaked with synthetic cannabinoids hidden in packages of disposable diapers that arrived at Havana Airport from the United States.

Also, a woman was sentenced to 19 years in prison by the Provincial People's Court of Santiago de Cuba, after attempting to bring in one kilogram of cocaine from Jamaica, hidden in the soles of several sandals.

Additionally, in recent months, authorities have been confronting the rise in synthetic cannabinoid consumption, a drug popularly known as "El Químico," which has raised concerns due to its devastating effects, particularly among young people.

Frequently Asked Questions about Drug Trafficking in Cuba and Recent Customs Operations

What happened at Varadero Airport regarding drug trafficking?

A passenger was arrested at the Juan Gualberto Gómez International Airport in Varadero after it was discovered that they were carrying hashish concealed inside a shampoo bottle. This finding is part of a series of efforts by Cuban Customs to detect and prevent the entry of drugs into the country.

How is the Cuban Customs responding to the increase in drug trafficking?

The Customs of Cuba has intensified its controls at airports and has implemented joint operations with the Ministry of the Interior to detect creative drug trafficking methods. Several smuggling attempts have been intercepted, including drugs hidden in diapers and electronic devices. This action is part of a "Zero Tolerance" policy towards drugs.

What are the legal consequences for drug trafficking in Cuba?

Drug trafficking in Cuba faces severe legal penalties. Sentences can reach up to 30 years in prison, life imprisonment, or even the death penalty in aggravated cases. The Cuban government has adopted a zero-tolerance approach and conducts exemplary trials to deter these activities.

What creative methods are drug traffickers using to bring drugs into Cuba?

Drug traffickers are using increasingly clever methods for smuggling drugs, such as hiding narcotics in false bottoms of suitcases, electronic cigarettes, and even in shampoo bottles. This rise in creativity has prompted Customs to enhance their detection techniques.

What is the current situation of drug consumption in Cuba?

In recent years, Cuba has witnessed a concerning rise in drug consumption, especially among the youth. The use of "El Químico" and marijuana has increased significantly, raising alarm due to their devastating effects on the physical and mental health of the young population.

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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.