Related videos:
A bus driver in Havana reported being a victim of a theft while performing his job, amid the already critical situation of public transport and criminal acts in the capital.
The affected individual, identified as Yandy Rodríguez, recounted in the group Facebook Transportación Habana TH that a thief stole a pair of rubber boots and a set of tools from him.
"Then they get angry when one drives through the streets empty. God bless him and may he soon collect from the thief. One is helping the population, since transportation is bad, and they pay by stealing. Blessings," wrote the driver.
The report highlights the climate of insecurity and precariousness in which many public transport workers in Cuba operate, forced to deal not only with shortages of parts and fuel but also with incidents of this kind, which exacerbate the lack of protection for the sector and directly affect the service provided to the public.
Thefts and more thefts
On August 30th, it was reported that a cell phone was stolen on a public transport bus in Havana, and the driver decided to take the bus to the police.
Thefts on buses in Havana are common, with pickpockets operating with impunity. Passengers, urged to protect their belongings, report the inaction of the drivers and the police.
Another incident of insecurity in interprovincial transportation has raised alarm in Cuba, after a group of criminals committed the robbery of suitcases on a bus belonging to the state company Transtur, while traveling from Oriente to Havana.
The incident occurred on Saturday, August 16, around 10:30 PM on the busy Vía Blanca, when the vehicle briefly stopped at a traffic light.
Several individuals took advantage of those few seconds to open the trunk lid, grab several suitcases, and flee while the passengers looked on in astonishment and shouted.
Frequently asked questions about insecurity in public transportation in Havana
What types of theft are common on buses in Havana?
On the buses in Havana, the most common thefts are of wallets and mobile phones. Pickpockets operate in groups and often take advantage of crowds to carry out the thefts. Additionally, there are also reports of luggage thefts in the compartments of interprovincial buses.
What measures are being taken to combat crime in Cuban public transportation?
Despite frequent reports of theft, the response from the authorities has been deemed insufficient by the population. Citizens are calling for more effective action and increased police surveillance to curb crime on buses and at terminals.
What impact does insecurity in public transportation have on drivers and passengers?
Insecurity in public transport affects both drivers and passengers, creating an atmosphere of vulnerability and fear. Drivers have to cope with a lack of parts and fuel, in addition to theft, which impacts the service provided to the public. Passengers, for their part, are forced to take extra measures to protect their belongings.
What is recommended for passengers to protect themselves from theft on buses?
Passengers are advised to keep their belongings, such as mobile phones and wallets, in secure places and to stay alert to their surroundings. It is also recommended to avoid carrying valuable items in exterior pockets or easily accessible backpacks, especially during peak hours.
Filed under: