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In an incident reminiscent of scenes from the Wild West and highlighting the growing insecurity plaguing rural areas in Cuba, an armed group of more than ten men—among them a fugitive from justice—stormed a production cooperative in Cacocum, Holguín, instilling panic among workers and locals.
According to the account published online, the violent incident occurred at the Basic Cooperative Production Unit (UBPC) of Limoncito, where the criminals, mounted on horseback, armed, and with their faces covered, held everyone present at gunpoint to seize almost 60 cattle.
The carefully planned criminal operation even included the temporary kidnapping of the guards and an employee, who were released miles later, unharmed physically but with a strong psychological impact.
According to the profile of Facebook "Cazador Cazado," close to the Ministry of Interior (MININT), the scale of the assault tested the local authorities.
An operation successfully captured seven of those involved immediately, all of whom had criminal records.
They were identified as Yosvani Pérez, Erisbel Peña, Saidin Gómez, Mariano Rivero, Rafael Arias, Robersi Lahera (alias "El Bechi"), and Alberto Almarales, all from the municipality of Urbano Noris.
During the operation, more than 20 cows were recovered, along with tools, items, and remnants of animal sacrifices that confirmed the intention to illegally trade the meat.
The case, however, is not closed: there are still fugitives involved, and the investigation points to a much broader criminal network with ramifications in the region.
For the farmers and agricultural workers, what has happened is not an isolated incident, but rather another example of the deterioration of social order in the country.
Violence in the Cuban fields has been on the rise in recent years.
The theft of livestock and crops has become commonplace, driven by the deep economic and food crisis the Island is experiencing, along with the lack of police control.
While the authorities showcase specific arrests, the population reports that crime is growing faster than the state’s responses.
What happened in Holguín reveals a painful contrast: while the official discourse speaks of order and tranquility, people in rural communities live in fear that armed gangs on horseback will suddenly burst in to destroy what little they have left.
For many, the incident in Cacocum is not just the account of a botched robbery but a sign of the collapse of security in the country and the regime's inability to guarantee a minimum level of stability amid the crisis.
Frequently Asked Questions about Insecurity and Crime in Rural Areas of Cuba
What happened at the cooperative in Cacocum, Holguín?
In Cacocum, Holguín, an armed group of more than ten men raided a production cooperative, subduing the workers and stealing nearly 60 cattle. The criminals were mounted on horseback, armed, and had their faces covered. This incident reflects the increasing insecurity in rural areas of Cuba.
How has the Cuban government responded to the increase in crime in the countryside?
Despite some successful operations, such as the capture of seven individuals involved in the Holguín robbery, the population reports that crime is growing faster than state responses. The lack of control and impunity are constant concerns in rural communities.
What is the current situation regarding cattle theft in Cuba?
The illegal theft and sacrifice of livestock are growing problems in Cuba, especially in provinces with high livestock activity. This phenomenon severely affects the agricultural economy and the food security of the country. Despite the government's efforts, many cases remain unpunished.
What impact does rural crime have on the lives of Cuban farmers?
Violence and constant robbery in the countryside have created an atmosphere of fear and insecurity among the farmers. Incidents like the one in Cacocum are seen as a sign of the collapse of security in the country and of the government's inability to ensure stability amidst the crisis.
What measures are being taken to combat cattle theft in Cuba?
The government has implemented patrols in neighborhoods and reactivated surveillance units, but cattle ranchers warn that these measures have little impact without addressing the lack of resources and without punishing exemplarily the organized networks dedicated to illegal slaughter and clandestine marketing.
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