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The police arrested three individuals in the city of Manzanillo, Granma province, accused of setting up and promoting illegal gambling games right in the area of the seawall during the celebration of the carnival.
The information was released this Thursday in a post on Facebook by the official profile Entérate con Aytana Alama, which reported the seizure of three tables and a roulette wheel that the detainees used to lure passersby and cause them to lose money in illegal bets.
According to the description, the officials intervened at the moment when several citizens were participating in the games, which resulted in the immediate arrest of the organizers.
In Cuba, this type of activity is prohibited, although they tend to reappear during carnivals and other large-scale festivities, where authorities act swiftly against minor offenders while larger issues remain unaddressed.
This is another way in which some people seek to make money amid an uncontrolled economic crisis, also in a context where the regime is unable to protect citizens from scams of this nature.
During the carnival in Bayamo, authorities recently prohibited the sale of apples, glasses, clothing, and other products considered "luxury items" or "not related to the festivities," in a measure that has been seen as yet another way to restrict the few commercial opportunities amid the economic crisis.
The decision caused discontent among the vendors, who relied on these dates each year to earn income in a context of widespread impoverishment.
In other cities of eastern Cuba, such as Santiago de Cuba, the situation has led to organized scams, such as those involving “chaperos” who deceive tourists and local residents during nighttime activities.
The victims report having been stripped of money and belongings after false promises of companionship or services, in schemes that exploit darkness, lack of oversight, and social desperation.
By 2024, the frequent blackouts in Santiago de Cuba led to the proliferation of street games with illegal betting. In plain sight, groups of young people gathered to play cards and dice for money, taking advantage of the lack of light and limited oversight.
These practices, although historically repressed by the regime, resurface as a means of escape or livelihood in impoverished neighborhoods, where entertainment and money are both scarce.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Repression of Illegal Activities in Manzanillo
What happened during the Manzanillo carnival in 2025?
The police arrested three individuals in Manzanillo for organizing illegal gambling at the malecón during the carnival. Three tables and a roulette wheel used for betting were seized.
Why are illegal gambling games common during festivals in Cuba?
In Cuba, gambling is prohibited, but it often reappears during carnivals and other large festivities due to the lack of economic opportunities and the attempts of some citizens to earn income amid the economic crisis.
How does the economic crisis in Cuba affect illegal activities?
The economic crisis in Cuba has led to an increase in illegal activities such as gambling, meat trafficking, and drug trade. The scarcity of food and basic products pushes the population to turn to underground markets to meet their needs, while the government fails to provide effective solutions.
What is the Cuban government's stance on minor offenses compared to larger issues?
Cuban authorities tend to act swiftly against minor offenders, such as organizers of illegal games, while larger issues, like food shortages and blackouts, go unaddressed, reflecting a questionable prioritization in crisis management.
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