The Telecommunications Company of Cuba S.A. (ETECSA) reported a new act of vandalism against one of its radio bases in San Vicente, Santiago de Cuba, which left more than 2,500 users without mobile phone service or access to the internet.
The company confirmed the theft of batteries and the destruction of additional equipment, highlighting once again the increasing wave of attacks against telecommunications infrastructure in the province.
According to a company executive who spoke to state television, the affected radio base had been recently installed and was set to go into operation the day after the theft.
The official explained that these systems are equipped with battery banks that allow them to maintain coverage in the event of power outages, making them a primary target for criminals.
However, on this occasion, the perpetrators did not limit themselves to the theft of the batteries; they also destroyed rectifiers, wiring, and other high-cost imported equipment, resulting in millions of dollars in losses for the country.
The leader described the events as an "act of vandalism" and warned that such acts of sabotage not only affect the company but also "undermine socioeconomic development" by leaving entire communities cut off from communication.
He also called on the public to report any suspicious activity and to collaborate in the protection of these strategic facilities.
Consequences for the inhabitants of San Vicente
After the robbery, the residents of the town have had to travel long distances to find mobile signal, in a context where communication via the internet and phone is vital for staying in touch with family and handling everyday tasks.
The remote location of the radio base has complicated the identification of those responsible, who remain at large for now.
ETECSA acknowledged that, in many cases, stolen batteries end up in the informal market or are used in homes to power inverters, which further complicates tracking down the culprits.
The company reiterated that the stolen and damaged equipment is difficult to replace immediately and that there is no set date to restore service in San Vicente.
A recurring problem
This incident is not isolated.
Workers from ETECSA in Santiago have continuously reported on social media the proliferation of sabotage against base stations in the province, with some facilities experiencing as many as six attacks.
Among the most sought-after equipment are battery banks, rectifiers, cables, and fuel for generators, all of which hold high value and utility in the black market.
Engineer Luis Enrique Torres Almarales, an employee of the company, described these events as "intentional sabotage" that harms the national economy and severely affects the connectivity of entire communities.
He also called for increased police surveillance and exemplary measures against the perpetrators, reminding that telecommunications workers are not custodians, but rather technicians responsible for keeping the network operational.
Severe punishments
The Cuban government has warned that acts of vandalism against telecommunications infrastructure will be punished under Article 125 of the Penal Code, which defines these crimes as sabotage and imposes penalties of up to 15 years in prison.
Authorities maintain that these attacks pose a threat to national security, especially in the context of an energy and technological crisis.
However, critical sectors argue that the official narrative also serves as a smokescreen to hide the deterioration of maintenance and the vulnerability of the networks.
In provinces like Holguín, there have also been reports of fuel thefts from generators, indicating a pattern that extends beyond Santiago de Cuba.
A situation with no solution in sight
So far in 2025, Santiago de Cuba has recorded at least 17 vandalized radio bases, many of which were recently installed.
The attacks occur in both urban and rural areas, primarily at night and taking advantage of prolonged power outages.
ETECSA assures that it has reinforced the remote monitoring of its facilities, but admits that criminals have adapted, accessing the cabinets from the back to evade the alarms.
Meanwhile, thousands of Cubans remain cut off from communication every time a robbery occurs, a situation that reveals the structural weaknesses of the only telecommunications company on the island and the persistence of a problem without a definitive solution.
Frequently Asked Questions about Thefts and Vandalism at ETECSA Radio Bases in Cuba
What impact do thefts at ETECSA radio bases in Santiago de Cuba have?
The thefts at ETECSA's radio bases have left more than 2,500 users without mobile phone service or internet access in San Vicente, Santiago de Cuba. These acts of vandalism impact the connectivity of entire communities, forcing residents to travel long distances to find a mobile signal, complicating their daily communication and routine tasks.
Why are these thefts occurring at ETECSA's radio bases?
Thefts primarily focus on battery banks and other high-value equipment because these components are essential for maintaining coverage during power outages and have a high value in the informal market. Additionally, the remote locations of some radio bases and the lack of adequate surveillance facilitate these acts of vandalism.
What measures is ETECSA taking to address vandalism at its facilities?
ETECSA has implemented stricter remote monitoring of its facilities, although criminals have adapted their modus operandi to evade alarms. The company has also requested the cooperation of the public to report suspicious activities and protect these strategic infrastructures.
What are the penalties for those responsible for vandalism against telecommunications infrastructure in Cuba?
Vandalism against telecommunications infrastructure is classified as sabotage and can be punished with sentences ranging from seven to 15 years in prison, according to Article 125 of the new Penal Code in Cuba. These actions are viewed as a threat to national security, especially in the current context of energy and technological crisis.
Is there a pattern in the attacks on ETECSA’s radio base stations in Cuba?
The attacks on ETECSA's radio bases are part of a pattern affecting several provinces, such as Santiago de Cuba, Holguín, and Havana. These incidents are not limited to rural areas but also occur in urban zones, exploiting factors such as power outages and inadequate surveillance.
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