Cuban government confiscates vessels found on the coasts of Santiago de Cuba

The Cuban regime confiscated a Zodiac-type vessel in Santiago de Cuba, citing maritime laws. Authorities are asking potential owners to claim it within 30 days with valid documentation.

The Cuban government, through the Port Captaincy of Santiago de Cuba, announced the provisional confiscation of a vessel found on June 7th off the coast of Uvero, in the Guamá municipality of Santiago de Cuba province. The discovery was made in accordance with Article 214, paragraph c), of Decree No. 317, Regulations of Law No. 115 "On Maritime, River, and Lacustrine Navigation." The vessel in question is a Zodiac type, with a rubber and plastic hull, white and red in color, with a length..Photo © Escambray

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The Cuban regime, through the Captaincy of the Port of Santiago de Cuba, announced the provisional confiscation of a vessel found on June 7th off the coast of Uvero, in the municipality of Guamá, in the province of Santiago de Cuba.

The discovery, reported through the official site Granma, was made in accordance with Article 214, section c), of Decree No. 317, Regulation of Law No. 115 "On Maritime, River, and Lake Navigation."

The vessel in question is of the Zodiac type, with a rubber and plastic hull, white and red in color, measuring 2.40 meters in length, 1.40 meters in beam, and 0.40 meters in draft.

Additionally, it is equipped with a Mercury outboard motor, with 6.0 HP, serial number 02134266. On the port side hull, the identifier "AXE-F82731" can be read.

Authorities have urged any individual or legal entity wishing to claim rights to the vessel to appear at the Captaincy of the Port of Santiago de Cuba, located on Avenida Jesús Menéndez, La Alameda, within thirty calendar days from the publication of this notice.

Interested parties must present documentation that legally verifies their ownership or possession of the found item.

The confiscation of vessels found in Cuban waters is in accordance with current regulations aimed at ensuring safety and sovereignty in the island's maritime territory, the Havana regime asserts.

The Border Guard Troops, under the Ministry of the Interior, are responsible for the detection, handling, and disposal of these vessels.

Cuban authorities believe that these boats are often used by migrants trying to reach south Florida, making transfers at sea.

Some vessels have allegedly belonged to drug traffickers in the region who often abandon boats and vessels adrift, in circumstances of escape after being detected by authorities.

In June, the MININT reported two vessels found in the province of Matanzas that have been confiscated.

In May, the Border Guard Troops Directorate reported that on April 26, a nameless jet ski, colored black and yellow, with the number FL3058TC, was found in the area of Quebrado el Real, in the municipality of Nuevitas, Camagüey province.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Confiscation of Vessels in Cuba

Why does the Cuban government confiscate vessels on its shores?

The Cuban government justifies the confiscation of boats found on its shores as a measure to ensure security and sovereignty in its maritime territory. The authorities believe that these boats are often used by migrants attempting to reach southern Florida or by drug traffickers operating in the region.

What procedure is followed for the confiscation of boats in Cuba?

The procedure for the confiscation of vessels in Cuba is regulated by Decree No. 317, Regulation of Law No. 115 "On Maritime, River, and Lake Navigation." The Border Guard Troops, under the Ministry of the Interior, are responsible for the detection, management, and disposal of these vessels. Owners can claim their rights by presenting themselves at the relevant Port Authority within a specified timeframe.

What should owners do to recover a confiscated vessel in Cuba?

Owners who wish to claim a confiscated vessel must report to the relevant Port Authority within a period of 30 calendar days from the official publication of the finding. They must provide documentation that legally proves their ownership or possession of the found property.

What are the consequences of drug trafficking and illegal migration in Cuba?

The consequences of drug trafficking and illegal migration in Cuba are severe. Cuban authorities have increased the severity of penalties for drug-related offenses, which can reach up to 30 years in prison, life imprisonment, or even the death penalty in the most serious cases. Regarding illegal migration, the vessels used are confiscated and any possible connections to illicit activities are investigated.

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CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists committed to reporting on Cuban current affairs and topics of global interest. At CiberCuba, we work to deliver truthful news and critical analysis.