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The Cuban regime reported the seizure of several illegal GSM and LTE signal amplifiers in the municipality of San José, Mayabeque province, during an operation carried out by the Technical Budgeted Unit for Radio Spectrum Control (UPTCER).
In a post on Facebook, the entity stated that these devices, which are prohibited in Cuba both in usage and importation, have a “very negative impact” on mobile signal reception and represent a direct interference for the base stations (RB) of the national telecommunications system.
"There are areas where it is almost impossible to connect to the Internet, and for that reason, confrontation is necessary," justified UPTCER.
The authorities did not provide details on the exact amount of seized equipment or the identities of the offenders, although they assured that the "appropriate measures" were taken and that the operation should serve as an example for the rest of the country.
UPTCER, on behalf of the regime, reiterated that it is the only authorized entity to approve the importation of information and communication technology equipment, and warned that any device that has entered the country without this approval violates current legislation.
In its message, the organization publicly thanked the authorities of Mayabeque, the Territorial Control Office (OTC), the local Technical Directorate, and the Technical Verification Center of the Radioelectric Spectrum for their support in the operation.
He also stated that this type of action supports ETECSA's efforts and the "well-being of the people."
The seizure of illegal GSM amplifiers in Mayabeque is not an isolated incident, but part of a systematic campaign by the Cuban regime against uncontrolled connectivity technologies.
In early April, the authorities announced the , in an operation aimed at limiting the entry of devices capable of providing independent access to the network.
The repressive focus has intensified against Starlink satellite technology, seen as a direct threat to state control over telecommunications.
In May, Customs detected seven Starlink terminals hidden in packages, which raised alarms within the technological surveillance apparatus.
Meanwhile, the regime has reinforced its legalistic rhetoric, warning that the installation of Starlink equipment violates at least four Cuban laws.
These regulations allow authorities to pursue both the possession and distribution of these devices under charges of cybersecurity and violations of the radio spectrum.
Finally, the official narrative has reached the point of linking these technologies to actions of "external destabilization," claiming that the Starlink antennas are part of an alleged covert operation.
With this argument, the State justifies its technical, legal, and propagandistic offensive against any form of connectivity that escapes its centralized control.
Frequently Asked Questions about the seizure of illegal GSM equipment in Cuba
Why did the Cuban regime confiscate GSM equipment in San José, Mayabeque?
The Cuban regime seized this equipment because it is illegal and disrupts the national mobile network. The illegal GSM and LTE signal amplifiers interfered with mobile signal reception and with the base stations of the national telecommunications system, which justified the action taken by the Budgeted Unit of Technical Control of the Radioelectric Spectrum (UPTCER).
What measures does the Cuban regime take against the use of unauthorized telecommunications equipment?
The regime imposes confiscations and sanctions on those who use unauthorized telecommunications equipment. According to the article, in addition to the confiscation of equipment, legal measures are applied to those who violate the current legislation regarding the importation and use of these devices in Cuba.
What is the impact of using illegal equipment on ETECSA's network?
The use of illegal equipment causes interference in ETECSA's network, affecting its quality and performance. This includes the use of non-approved antennas and repeaters that interfere with the signal of the radio bases and disrupt telephone and mobile network services in specific areas of the country.
Why is the Cuban regime against services like Starlink?
The Cuban regime views Starlink as a threat to the ETECSA monopoly and the sovereignty of the radioelectric spectrum. Starlink represents an alternative that allows Cubans to connect to the internet without going through state control, which the regime sees as a violation of its telecommunications regulations and a potential digital aggression.
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