Seven people were arrested after engaging in a violent fight in the early hours of last Sunday on the San Rafael Boulevard in Centro Habana.
The Ministry of the Interior reported this Wednesday on Facebook that, during the interrogations, those involved acknowledged their participation in the events and claimed that the conflict originated from prior personal differences and previous altercations among some of them.
The detainees are between 16 and 24 years old, and according to the official source, several have exhibited social misconduct, and some have criminal records, which exacerbates their legal situation.
In the statement, the Ministry of the Interior described the incident as a serious disturbance of public order.
Additionally, they reported that the arrested individuals will be presented to the Prosecutor's Office within the established legal timeframe, while investigations continue to fully clarify what occurred and determine if there are any additional individuals involved.
A video that circulated on social media showed the chaotic scene that took place early Sunday morning on the boulevard of San Rafael in Centro Habana, where a group of teenagers, many apparently underage, ran armed with machetes in what witnesses described as an alleged confrontation between gangs.
The images, shared by independent journalist Yosmany Mayeta, showed a stampede of young people fleeing at full speed down the busy commercial artery.
The police arrived late at the scene, by which time the chaos had reached its peak, the spokesperson emphasized.
Although no injuries are visible in the video, the atmosphere of shouting, panic, and total vulnerability was evident, provoking a wave of public reactions filled with indignation, fear, and questioning of the authorities' inaction.
Frequently Asked Questions about the fight in Centro Habana and youth violence in Cuba
What happened on San Rafael Boulevard in Central Havana?
A violent brawl broke out on San Rafael Boulevard in Central Havana in the early hours of Sunday, involving youths armed with machetes. The incident was classified by the Ministry of the Interior as a serious disturbance of public order, and several individuals involved have criminal records.
Who were the detainees following the fight in Centro Habana?
Seven people were detained, aged between 16 and 24 years, some of whom have criminal records. Among the arrested are minors, which complicates their legal situation in the context of youth violence in Cuba.
What was the population's reaction to the fight in San Rafael?
The population reacted with outrage and fear following the incident, criticizing the inaction of the police authorities who arrived late at the scene. Images of chaos and disorder sparked strong reactions on social media, reflecting citizens' fatigue with the rising youth crime in Cuba.
How is youth violence being addressed in Cuba?
Youth violence in Cuba is being repeatedly criticized by the population, which demands more effective measures from the government. Despite arrests and police operations, many believe that the regime's response is inadequate and call for approaches that include educational programs, drug prevention, and social support.
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