The Provincial Popular Court of Havana began the trial on Tuesday against those involved in the serious and violent disturbances that took place exactly one year ago in the surrounding areas of the well-known Finca de los Monos, located in the Cerro municipality of Havana.
According to the portal Cubadebate, the prosecution, in its provisional conclusions, indicates the commission of the offenses of public disorder and illegal possession and carrying of weapons or explosives.
In the case, seven defendants remain in provisional custody, two are being prosecuted for subsequent events, and another 11 appear in liberty.
The state media report insists that the guarantees and procedural rights of the defendants have been respected.
The context of the case
The judicial process dates back to the events that occurred on Saturday, June 8, 2024, during a youth cultural event promoted as the "Start of Youth Summer 2024," held in the vicinity of the Finca de los Monos.
The event, aimed at teenagers between 12 and 17 years old, was organized by the Klatus Creativo initiative with the support of the municipal government of Cerro and promoted by Cuban television, despite the fact that authorities later labeled it as "not approved."
The day ended in a violent brawl between groups of young people, some armed with machetes and bladed weapons, leading to chaotic scenes and multiple injuries.
Although official sources initially downplayed the seriousness of the incident and stated that there were only two injuries with no life-threatening risks, reports on social media and leaked videos presented a more alarming picture.
In later statements, official spokesperson Humberto López acknowledged that at least six people were injured.
However, images shared on social media showed dozens of young people in violent confrontations, with some unverified testimonies mentioning possible fatalities, which were denied by the authorities.
Controversy over the event's organization
The Finca de los Monos expressed regret on social media about what happened, stating that "the event's ability to attract people was underestimated" and that there were no injuries on their premises. They emphasized that the aim was to provide an affordable cultural and recreational space for teenagers during the summer.
Despite the official statements, previous promotional publications, including interventions in state media, indicated that the event was coordinated with local authorities and that access controls were anticipated to prevent the consumption of alcohol and tobacco.
The Cuban authorities, for their part, stated that the incidents occurred in the outer areas of the venue and that order was restored thanks to the intervention of the Revolutionary National Police.
A reflection of deeper problems
The violence unleashed around the event has been interpreted by some sectors as a worrying sign of the growing insecurity and lack of opportunities for young people in Cuba.
Videos on social media showed teenagers, some as young as 13, involved in the fights, highlighting a more complex social reality that goes beyond the specific incident.
With the trial underway, it is expected that individual responsibilities will be clarified and the legal implications of the events that occurred in one of the most violent youth incidents in recent years in Havana will be determined.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Trial for the Fight at the Monkeys' Farm in Havana
What crimes are charged against the accused in the fight at the Monkey Farm?
The accused are facing charges for public disorder and illegal possession and carrying of weapons or explosives. These offenses are related to the violent disturbances that occurred in June 2024 during a youth cultural event in Havana.
What happened during the event at the Monkey Farm that led to the violence?
The event ended in a violent fight between groups of young people, some armed with machetes and bladed weapons. This incident resulted in several injuries and highlighted the increasing insecurity and lack of opportunities for youth in Cuba.
What role did the authorities play in organizing the event at the Finca de los Monos?
The event was organized with the support of the municipal government of Cerro and promoted by Cuban television, although later the authorities classified it as "not approved." This initial support contrasts with subsequent statements downplaying its seriousness.
How has violence been interpreted in the event at the Finca de los Monos?
Violence has been interpreted as a troubling sign of the increasing insecurity and lack of opportunities for young people in Cuba. The videos shared on social media revealed a complex social reality that goes beyond the specific incident.
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