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The General Customs of the Republic of Cuba has detected a new method of drug trafficking at José Martí International Airport in Havana: methamphetamine hidden inside rechargeable light bulbs, an item that is often brought into the country due to the energy crisis facing the island.
The information was confirmed on the social network X by Wiliam Pérez González, the first deputy chief of Customs, who shared details of the finding.
"An ingenious method of concealing drugs was detected at Havana airport thanks to the expertise of the Cuban Customs and the anti-drug agency. The methamphetamine was wrapped in aluminum foil and stuffed inside light bulbs," wrote the official.
The message was accompanied by several images showing how the substance was camouflaged inside the light bulbs.
The drug, wrapped in aluminum foil, was concealed within the bodies of the devices, demonstrating the level of sophistication reached by those attempting to circumvent border controls.
The finding adds to other recent failed attempts, such as the shipment of synthetic cannabinoids soaked in sheets of paper hidden inside disposable diapers, also intercepted at the capital's airport terminal.
The Customs has reiterated that it will continue to strengthen controls at the points of entry into the country, especially in light of the increase in “ingenious” methods to smuggle drugs into the national territory, taking advantage of everyday items that are in high demand in Cuba due to the structural crisis it is experiencing.
In recent weeks, the Cuban Customs has intensified its controls at the country's main airports, detecting multiple attempts to smuggle drugs, money, and regulated goods.
In March, authorities reported the thwarting of an attempt to smuggle two kilograms of gold bars, hidden in a false bottom of a suitcase at Havana airport. According to the official statement, those involved will face criminal charges, and the training of officers was emphasized as key to detecting this crime.
Recently, a passenger was caught at Varadero airport while trying to smuggle hashish hidden in a shampoo bottle. This case has raised concerns about the increasing use of everyday products as a camouflage method, a trend that is frequently observed.
Just one day later, more than 890 blister packs of a controlled medication were seized in Havana, hidden inside seasoning boxes. These operations are part of a national offensive against the trafficking of psychotropic substances and narcotics.
Last Saturday, Customs intercepted 26,000 euros that were not declared, hidden in a double bottom sealed with nylon at the airport in the capital. The amount violated the regulations established by the Central Bank of Cuba, leading to the implementation of measures without further details provided in the report released by the authorities.
Frequently Asked Questions about Drug Trafficking in Cuba
How was methamphetamine detected at Havana airport?
The Cuban Customs detected methamphetamine hidden inside rechargeable light bulbs at the José Martí International Airport in Havana. The devices contained the drug wrapped in aluminum foil, demonstrating the level of sophistication of the methods used for drug trafficking on the island.
What other methods have been used to traffic drugs in Cuba?
In addition to light bulbs, disposable diapers and electronic devices have been used to conceal drugs. Recently, authorities have intercepted synthetic cannabinoids hidden in paper sheets within diapers and methamphetamines in modified electronic devices. This pattern demonstrates the ingenuity of smugglers in evading security at Cuban borders.
What measures is Cuba taking to combat drug trafficking?
The Customs of Cuba is strengthening controls at points of entry to the country to combat drug trafficking. This includes the implementation of operations with specialized forces from the Ministry of the Interior (MININT) and the establishment of the National Drug Observatory to monitor the phenomenon on the island.
What is the National Drug Observatory in Cuba?
The National Drug Observatory (OND) is an institution created to monitor and oversee the phenomenon of drugs in Cuba. Its goal is to detect new psychoactive substances and analyze trends in the consumption and trafficking of narcotics. This organization will facilitate coordination among institutions to formulate policies for the prevention and control of drug trafficking.
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