A 24-year-old man was sentenced to 8 years in prison in Santiago de Cuba for drug trafficking.
The accused was engaged in the trafficking of marijuana and cocaine, according to a report from Tele Turquino that covered the exemplary trial in which he was convicted.
On September 12, 2024, officers from the National Anti-Drug Directorate conducted a search at his home located at 99 Estrella Street, between E Street and 11th Street, Jiménez neighborhood, in the municipality of Santiago de Cuba
The officers seized 6 packages of marijuana weighing 10.94 grams, a glass dish, four razor blade fragments that tested positive for cocaine, as well as 6 small crack rocks with a net weight of 1.26 grams.
The young man mixed marijuana with plant material to make cigarettes, and with cocaine, he manufactured crack rocks, the report states.
In June, a 64-year-old Venezuelan citizen was sentenced in Santiago de Cuba for drug trafficking following a recent oral trial held in the provincial court.
The information was released this Tuesday by the Provincial Prosecutor's Office of Santiago de Cuba through its profile on Facebook, where the exemplary nature of the judicial process and the commitment of the penal system to the Zero Tolerance policy against drug trafficking were emphasized.
Sanctions are being intensified
This week, the Supreme People's Court of Cuba issued a serious warning about the rise in the consumption and trafficking of synthetic drugs on the island, particularly in Havana, and approved a ruling that toughens the criminal penalties for those who possess or distribute these highly toxic substances.
The Supreme Court clarified that it will no longer be necessary for an accused to possess a pound (460 grams) of drugs to be prosecuted under the "relatively large quantities" article of the Penal Code.
In the case of synthetic cannabinoids, it will be sufficient to demonstrate, through toxicology and forensic expert assessments, that the substance is highly toxic, how many doses could be derived from the seized material, and the potential harm to public health.
For illicit possession, the classification will be under Article 236, paragraph a), with penalties ranging from one to three years of imprisonment or fines of up to one thousand units, similar to substances with the potency of cocaine.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Strengthening of Sanctions for Drug Trafficking in Cuba
Why was a young man in Santiago de Cuba sentenced to eight years in prison?
The young man was sentenced for drug trafficking, as he was engaged in the sale of marijuana and cocaine. According to authorities, wrappers of marijuana, blades with cocaine residue, and crack rocks were found at his home. This case is part of a series of exemplary trials in Cuba, aimed at combating drug trafficking with severe prison sentences.
What measures has the Supreme Court of Cuba taken regarding the trafficking of synthetic drugs?
The Supreme People's Court of Cuba has decided to
What is the current situation of drug use in Cuba, especially in Havana?
In Cuba, especially in Havana, there has been a concerning increase in the consumption and trafficking of synthetic drugs, known as "el químico." These drugs are highly toxic and can cause severe health damage. Despite the government's efforts to impose exemplary penalties, consumption continues to rise, partly due to the economic crisis and the lack of opportunities, which create a favorable environment for drug trafficking.
What impact do exemplary sentences have on the fight against drugs in Cuba?
Exemplary sentences in Cuba seek to deter drug trafficking through severe punishments, such as lengthy prison sentences and asset confiscation. However, despite these efforts, the problem persists, as the measures do not address underlying causes such as poverty and social decay. The authorities attempt to demonstrate control over the situation, but the phenomenon appears to be beyond their reach.
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