Another unfortunate video is circulating on social media, showing a Cuban under the influence of the drug known as "el químico".
In the images, the young man is sitting on the sidewalk, next to some trash, with his head down and making erratic movements, which confirm that he is under the influence of drugs.
In the brief video, you can hear the person recording approach and say: "Hey, my ecobio, what's up? Hey my ecobio, you're going to end up in the trash, tank."
"Think more about your life and your family. That doesn't offer anything! You're ruining your lives, my friend. Stop that nonsense... it doesn't give you anything, just mess, discomfort for the pure ones and the end of your life." can be read alongside the video.
In the comments section, some Cubans identified that the images were recorded in reparto Bahía, in the capital municipality of Habana del Este.
"I can't believe that's Lázaro Martínez," commented a surprised internet user, a conjecture supported by two others who seem to have identified the young man from the distressing images.
"Utensils that are all in that ping... They steal from the mother, from the neighbors, and they get caught in a thousand shameless acts for getting into that garbage"; "The chemist has all the kids sick, for God's sake"; Shame on the one filming and the other for consuming that garbage. "They're killing themselves!", commented other internet users.
"Today I saw three young boys just like that, behind the market on Vía Túnel. They cut off an arm that was coming from Envuelta or from the shelters. It was a little past 12 in the afternoon," recounted a local resident.
The rise of addiction to "the chemical" in Cuba
In recent months, several videos have emerged, many of them shocking, showing young people displaying a wide range of physical reactions after consuming the dangerous synthetic drug.
At the end of April, a case emerged of a young man who was lying in the middle of the street, while his body contorted and he emitted strange guttural sounds.
In February, a video emerged recorded on Egido Street, in Old Havana, where a young man lay motionless, under the influence of the same narcotic.
The drug is sold in the form of soaked paper and has been linked to multiple poisonings in health centers across the country. Adverse effects range from hallucinations and tachycardia to multiple organ failure and risk of death.
Cuban doctors identify "chemical" as part of the group of synthetic cannabinoids, substances designed to mimic marijuana but with much higher potency and toxicity.
The inclusion of compounds such as formaldehyde—used in mortuary rooms—hospital anesthetics, and even remnants of tea or other plants has been documented, aiming to reduce costs and enhance their effects.
The reactions they cause range from seizures and extreme hallucinations to irreversible neurological damage.
The use of "the chemical" has also been linked to an increase in violent episodes, induced psychosis, and self-destructive behaviors.
According to experts from the Ministry of the Interior (MININT), a new lethal version of this substance is currently circulating in the country, which contains elements such as fentanyl, a highly potent opioid associated with tens of thousands of overdose deaths worldwide, as well as formaldehyde, anesthetics for animals, benzodiazepines, and phenobarbital.
Although the authorities have carried out raids and arrests related to the trafficking of this substance, access remains widespread due to its low cost and distribution in school environments, peripheral neighborhoods, and through informal networks.
In February of this year, the Ministry of Justice announced the creation of the National Drug Observatory (OND), featuring an early warning system to identify new substances and monitor consumption and trafficking trends, with the support of the Police and Customs.
In recent months, several exemplary trials have been conducted that have imposed heavy prison sentences for the possession and sale of drugs.
However, for many Cubans, this strategy has proven insufficient, as it is limited to repression and confiscation.
Civil organizations and families of addicts insist that consumption should also be addressed from a public health perspective: with prevention campaigns, specialized medical assistance, and emergency protocols for those suffering from severe intoxications.
Medical and social organizations have also called for urgent awareness campaigns, as well as the establishment of accessible and effective rehabilitation centers for those struggling with addiction.
Frequently asked questions about the consumption of "El Químico" in Cuba
What is "El Químico" and what are its effects on health?
"El Químico" is a synthetic cannabinoid that mimics the effects of marijuana, but with much greater potency and toxicity. Its consumption can lead to hallucinations, seizures, tachycardia, and, in severe cases, multiple organ failure and death risk. The drug is clandestinely manufactured with dangerous ingredients like formaldehyde and anesthetics, which increases the risk of severe intoxication.
How is "El Químico" affecting young people in Cuba?
The consumption of "El Químico" is having a devastating impact on Cuban youth. Many young people experience physical and mental decline, facing a path of suffering that can culminate in death from overdose. The drug has gained popularity due to its low cost and rapid onset, increasing the risk of addiction and the deterioration of the lives of affected youth.
What measures is the Cuban government taking to combat the consumption of "El Químico"?
The Cuban government has intensified anti-drug operations and has established the National Drug Observatory to monitor the phenomenon. However, the actions have mainly focused on repression and have not been sufficient to curb the crisis. Although trials and arrests have taken place, drugs remain accessible, and preventive and educational strategies are still limited.
What are the criticisms of the Cuban government's response to the "El Químico" crisis?
The response of the Cuban government has been criticized for focusing on repression without addressing the roots of the problem. Many consider that the strategy has been insufficient, as comprehensive policies that include prevention, education, and rehabilitation have not been implemented. The lack of resources and adequate treatment centers has also been pointed out as a significant deficiency in the fight against addiction.
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