A crowd of people caught an alleged thief this Monday in the busy Paseo de Martí, in Santiago de Cuba.
The incident was shared on social media by independent journalist Yosmany Mayeta, who posted the video on his Facebook profile.
The images show several citizens detaining the young suspect and searching him in the middle of the street, apparently to recover what he had stolen.
Although the official details of the incident and the item that was allegedly taken are not yet known, the video shows how those present forced him to remove his boots to check if the stolen item was hidden there.
The crowd kept the suspected criminal sitting on the sidewalk, surrounded by several men, until a patrol car arrived and took him away from the scene.
During those minutes, several people shouted phrases like “Brazen!” and “Check him!” while others searched him for the stolen items.
“If anyone could recognize him and knows the details of what happened in this incident, you can message me privately,” Mayeta wrote alongside the video.
The growing sense of insecurity on the streets of Cuba has prompted the population to take direct action against criminal acts, as evidenced by a recent incident in Bayamo, where neighbors captured and tied up an alleged thief in broad daylight, before handing him over to the authorities.
This type of citizen response has become increasingly common in light of the perception that the police do not act with the expected urgency.
In another high-impact event, a man was arrested after orchestrating the theft of a national bus, an act that sparked surprise due to the audacity of the criminal and highlighted the security gaps in state transportation.
In Havana, another individual climbed onto a moving truck to steal, putting multiple people in danger and demonstrating the boldness with which some crimes are committed.
Frequently Asked Questions about Insecurity and Vigilante Justice in Santiago de Cuba
Why is the population of Santiago de Cuba taking justice into their own hands?
The population of Santiago de Cuba has begun to take justice into their own hands due to the rise in crime and the lack of effective response from the police. Citizens are frustrated by the perception of impunity and the ineffectiveness of the authorities in ensuring safety, which has led to acts of vigilante justice in the community.
What recent incidents of vigilante justice have been reported in Santiago de Cuba?
Recently, in Santiago de Cuba, several incidents have been reported where citizens have captured and handed over suspected thieves to the police. One notable case was the capture of an individual on Paseo de Martí, where he was held until the authorities arrived. These events reflect the growing desperation of the population in the face of insecurity in the region.
What are the consequences of vigilante justice in Santiago de Cuba?
Self-justice can lead to violent and dangerous situations for those involved, both for the alleged offenders and for the citizens who choose to intervene. Furthermore, these actions can escalate into larger conflicts and reflect a lack of trust in the judicial system and the authorities responsible for public safety.
How has crime affected communities in Santiago de Cuba?
Crime has generated an atmosphere of insecurity and fear in the communities of Santiago de Cuba. The population is increasingly concerned about their personal safety and the security of their possessions, leading to a collective reaction to confront criminality in light of the perception of police ineffectiveness.
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