Lilia Ortiz, a Mexican residing in Cuba who had invested time, effort, and resources in a local market, was a victim of a robbery that left her without merchandise and with a deep sense of helplessness.
Through an emotional video posted on her Instagram profile, the young woman shared how she and her family had worked hard to establish the business, which she did not specify the location of in Havana, only to watch their efforts vanish in a matter of hours.
"Many know that I am the Mexican living in Cuba and I want to share that they stole everything we had at our market," Lilia began, visibly upset.
The young woman explained that, from the beginning, her project was a commitment filled with sacrifice and honest work, aimed at providing quality products to her customers.
According to his testimony, the market required a significant investment in both infrastructure and merchandise, all acquired with personal funds.
However, despite the efforts to improve the conditions of the premises and present a dignified space for customers, the story took an unexpected turn.
"We had to invest a lot in making it beautiful and also in quality merchandise, but unfortunately, we weren't given a chance to set it up the way we wanted, because shortly after opening, everything was stolen.", he added.
Lilia also lamented that they were unable to complete even a third of what they had planned for the market. "This market is built on a tremendous amount of work, effort, and sacrifice. Here, it's 100% honest and honorable work; no one has given us anything or made anything easier for us," she asserted with determination.
Despite the blow received, Lilia did not lose hope and assured that she would face this situation with more strength and new strategies. "It doesn’t matter, now we come with more strength and with God's help we know everything is going to turn out well," she concluded.
The testimony of this young Mexican woman sparked a wave of solidarity on social media, where her followers have expressed support and encouragement for her to not give up in the face of this adversity.
The story has also sparked a debate about the challenges faced by entrepreneurs in Cuba, especially those who rely on their personal effort and their own resources to move their businesses forward.
Some users provided recommendations to enhance the security of your business. "Hello, I suggest installing security cameras and alarms on doors and windows; I know people who install them safely," commented a user.
However, other comments reflected a more critical view of the situation in Cuba: "God, it's just that in Cuba it's not worth doing anything, there's no law. If the people don't steal it from you, the government will take it away."
Another comment added: "That’s what happens when you want to go live in Cuba." These reactions highlight the polarization in opinions and the disillusionment of many regarding the current conditions of security and support for entrepreneurship on the island.
A worrying context: Increase in insecurity and thefts in Cuba
The situation of Lilia Ortiz is not an isolated case; it is part of a concerning trend that affects numerous entrepreneurs on the island. According to the Cuban Citizen Audit Observatory (OCAC), in 2024, there was a 232% increase in thefts compared to the previous year, with an average of 3.6 crimes per day in the second half of the year.
This increase in criminal activity has left many private businesses in a vulnerable situation. For example, in March 2025, a manicurist's business in Havana was completely looted, taking all her products and leaving her without means to continue her work.
Additionally, government measures have increased pressure on the private sector. Between July and September 2024, the Cuban regime imposed fines totaling over 348 million pesos on micro, small, and medium-sized private enterprises (mipymes), after detecting more than 127,000 price violations.
In this context, the story of Lilia Ortiz highlights the resilience of Cuban entrepreneurs, who, despite the adversities, continue to fight to maintain their businesses and contribute to the struggling local economy.
Frequently asked questions about robberies targeting entrepreneurs in Cuba
What happened to Lilia Ortiz in Cuba?
Lilia Ortiz was the victim of a robbery at her business in Havana, leaving her without merchandise and feeling helpless after having invested significant time and resources in her venture.
How does insecurity affect entrepreneurs in Cuba?
Insecurity in Cuba is severely affecting entrepreneurs, who often fall victim to thefts that leave them without means to continue their businesses. The Cuban Citizen Audit Observatory reported a 232% increase in thefts in 2024, reflecting a worrying trend that leaves entrepreneurs in a vulnerable situation.
What security measures are recommended for businesses in Cuba?
It is recommended to install security cameras and alarms on doors and windows to enhance the protection of businesses. This measure can help deter criminals and provide evidence in the event of a theft, as suggested by some users on social media following the incident involving Lilia Ortiz.
What is the economic situation for entrepreneurs in Cuba?
Entrepreneurs in Cuba face a challenging economic situation due to government fines and an increasingly insecure environment. Between July and September 2024, fines totaling over 348 million pesos were imposed on private companies, adding pressure to the already complicated economic landscape for those who rely on their personal efforts to get ahead.
Filed under:
