A shocking video is circulating on social media showing the moment a group of people nearly lynches a young man in the neighborhood of La Palma, in the Arroyo Naranjo municipality of Havana.
According to witnesses, the young man attacked the manager of a grocery store with a knife in an attempted robbery.
Violence driven by drugs
According to the testimony of several witnesses, the assault was allegedly motivated by the attacker's need to obtain money for drugs.
This version, supported by multiple voices on the ground, aligns with a growing trend on the island: the increasingly tight link between drug addiction and criminal behavior, particularly among young people.
“The crime rate in Cuba is escalating. Delinquency and other ills have taken hold of society. This criminal assaulted a grocery store in La Palma and attacked and injured the manager,” wrote internet user José Miguel Abreu, who shared the video of the incident on social media.
"The people took action and gave the bastard a beating," he added, reflecting the collective anger unleashed by the incident.
The reaction of the crowd
The video, just over a minute long, shows several men attacking the alleged aggressor, amidst cries filled with rage and outrage over the brutal assault suffered by the store employee.
According to the recording, the victim—apparently an elderly person—was injured in the face with a sharp weapon, which caused extensive bleeding.
“Right now, he attacked the store clerk here. He slashed his whole face, sir, don't let him get away,” exclaimed the person filming the footage.
"Give it!", "You bold one!", "Hit him on the head and kill him!", "Don't let him get away!", shouted some of those present, while several men were beating the alleged thief, who was visibly dazed.
A victim rushed to the hospital
According to witnesses, the assaulted manager started bleeding immediately and had to be urgently taken to the hospital. The severity of the attack and the use of a knife caused shock among those who witnessed the incident.
As of the time this report was closed, there has been no official confirmation regarding the outcome of the incident or the health status of the victim or the aggressor.
Justice by one's own hand: a growing trend in Cuba
In recent years, it has become increasingly common for Cuban citizens to react directly to acts of violence or theft, capturing—and sometimes beating—attackers before the authorities intervene.
Social media has become the primary channel for spreading these situations, which often reflect the growing atmosphere of insecurity and impunity perceived by the population.
In this case, the magnitude of the aggression against the warehouse worker seems to have triggered a particularly violent citizen response.
Frequently Asked Questions about Violence and Crime in Cuba
Why have violence and theft increased in Cuba?
Violence and theft have increased in Cuba due to the economic crisis, which has driven many citizens into desperate situations. The lack of food, basic goods, and economic opportunities has led to a rise in crime, while drug use also contributes to violent behavior, especially among the youth.
What role do drugs play in acts of violence in Cuba?
Drugs, especially "chemical" substances, are closely linked to acts of violence in Cuba. Many recent criminal incidents involve young people under the influence of these substances, which exacerbate aggressive and criminal behaviors. The lack of control over drug trafficking has allowed their consumption to grow alarmingly.
How is Cuban society reacting to insecurity?
The Cuban society is beginning to take justice into its own hands, thwarting thefts and capturing criminals before the authorities intervene. This trend of citizen justice reflects frustration and distrust in the effectiveness of law enforcement to control crime, but it may also increase the risk of extrajudicial violence.
What is the stance of the Cuban government on the rise in crime?
Although the Cuban regime has acknowledged an increase in crime, the measures implemented do not seem to be effective in controlling the situation. The population perceives an inefficiency in police action and a lack of genuine commitment to resolving the issue of insecurity in the country.
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