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In the first three months of 2025, the province of Holguín experienced a significant increase in crimes against the National Electric System (SEN), affecting both the population and state facilities.
These criminal acts, which include the theft of wires, transformers, oil, and batteries, have resulted in losses exceeding 21,000 pesos
Aroldo Pupo Hechavarría, a specialist from the Electric Company, revealed that the most affected municipalities include Frank País, where a conductor valued at 13,000 pesos was stolen; Calixto García, where a transformer was taken; and Mayarí, where screws were removed from the Corúa park
Other incidents were recorded at state economic facilities, such as irrigation systems and workshops.
"Additionally, in homes, when the resident is not present or after a power outage, the connection, which is the wire that supplies the house, has been stolen," he said.
In the municipal seat, the loss of the battery from the Frayle communication repeater was reported, and diesel was stolen from the generators that supply power to isolated communities, leaving them without electric service for extended periods.
In response, the Holguín Electric Company adopted over 100 preventive measures, such as raising switch cabinets to more than three meters and installing chemical traps to identify those responsible. Additionally, security at vulnerable substations was strengthened by hiring extra security personnel
More than ten people have been prosecuted by the Prosecutor's Office, which emphasizes the seriousness of the offenses, describing them as acts of sabotage that threaten national security, with penalties ranging from seven to 15 years in prison and even exceeding 30 years, along with substantial fines.
Ulises Fuentes Noris, head of the substation group at the company, reported the theft of seven dielectric oil tanks at the Moa and Zarzal substations, which affected more than 4,000 customers. "About two months later, the incident occurred again."
These crimes have generated concern among the population; however, considering that the energy crisis in Cuba predates these thefts, there is skepticism about the official explanations.
The lack of investment and maintenance in the electrical system is seen by some citizens as the main cause of the blackouts, beyond the reported crimes
The information presented is based on an article from the newspaper Ahora, which thoroughly discusses the situation of crimes against the electrical system in Holguín and the measures taken to address them.
Frequently Asked Questions about Crimes Against the Electrical System in Holguín
What is the current situation regarding crimes against the Electrical System in Holguín?
In the first quarter of 2025, Holguín has experienced a significant increase in crimes against the National Electric System (SEN), including thefts of cables, transformers, oil, and batteries, resulting in losses exceeding 21,000 pesos. These thefts impact both the population and state facilities, exacerbating the already precarious energy situation in the province.
What measures has the Electric Company of Holguín taken to prevent these crimes?
The Holguín Electric Company has implemented more than 100 preventive measures to combat crimes against its infrastructure, including raising switch cabinets and using chemical traps. They have also strengthened security at vulnerable substations by hiring additional security personnel.
How is the Cuban government responding to thefts in the electrical system?
The Cuban government has promised severe penalties for those involved in the theft of electrical system components, describing them as acts of sabotage that compromise national security. The penalties include imprisonment and substantial fines, although these measures do not address the structural causes of the problem.
What impact do these robberies have on the population of Holguín?
The thefts have left entire communities without electricity for extended periods, affecting both the daily lives of citizens and state economic facilities. This exacerbates the already critical energy landscape in the region, increasing frustration and social discontent.
What challenges is the Cuban electrical system currently facing?
The Cuban electrical system faces a significant generation deficit, with deteriorating infrastructure and inadequate maintenance. The theft of essential components such as dielectric oil exacerbates this situation, contributing to prolonged blackouts that impact the daily lives of Cubans.
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