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The Cuban regime showcased on social media this Saturday the capture of an alleged thief in Guantánamo, amidst a wave of robberies of stores across the island that reflects the growing insecurity and the desperation of the population due to the shortage of basic food items.
The official page on Facebook “Guantánamo y su Verdad” reported that the arrest occurred in the early morning, during a heavy rain, when the police caught a man inside a warehouse located at Luz Caballero and Crombet.
According to the report, the individual had several bundles of cigars and tools such as a saw to break doors and locks.
The post, accompanied by images of the detained individual and the seized products, was presented as a “victory” of the joint effort between the community and the authorities, featuring messages that highlight “citizen collaboration” as a shield against crime.
However, the case comes just weeks after the theft of 14 sacks of rice from another Guantanamo warehouse, an incident that highlighted the scale of these crimes and the involvement of receivers in the illegal sales chain.
On that occasion, part of the loot was recovered, although neighbors confirmed that the break-in at the main door highlighted the lack of security in the establishments.
The Minister of Domestic Trade, Betsy Díaz Velázquez, recently acknowledged the seriousness of the situation, noting that more than 163 robberies in warehouses have been reported so far in 2025, a figure that exceeds that of the previous year. She even admitted that a worker lost his life while trying to defend his position during an assault.
Holguín, Las Tunas, Santiago de Cuba, Guantánamo, and Mayabeque are among the provinces most affected by this wave of crime, which leaves thousands of families in greater uncertainty regarding access to the limited basic food supplies.
Propaganda and reality
While the official apparatus strives to showcase isolated cases as examples of "police efficiency" or "popular vigilance," in practice, the bodegas remain one of the country's most vulnerable targets.
Many of these establishments lack security personnel, the workers' salaries are minimal, and the shortage of supplies makes any stored product a coveted prize.
On social media, the regime's propaganda campaigns, such as “Guardians for My Store”, are perceived more as a mechanism of social control than as a real solution.
Residents report that there are attempts to shift the burden of safety monitoring onto administrators and community members, while the State is evading its responsibility to ensure minimum security conditions.
Insecurity in Cuban warehouses is currently one of the starkest reflections of the collapse of the state distribution system, where hunger and need intertwine with repression and official propaganda.
Frequently Asked Questions about Insecurity and Theft in Cuban Warehouses
What is the current situation regarding thefts in Cuban warehouses?
So far in 2025, more than 163 thefts have been reported in Cuban warehouses, which represents an increase compared to the previous year. This situation reflects the growing insecurity in the country and the desperation due to the scarcity of basic food items. The lack of security in these establishments and the involvement of receivers have contributed to this wave of crime.
How has the Cuban government responded to the thefts in the warehouses?
The Cuban government has launched campaigns like "Guardians for My Grocery Store" to promote community oversight. However, these measures are perceived more as social control than as effective solutions. The Minister of Domestic Trade has acknowledged the seriousness of the problem and the inability to stop these thefts, placing the responsibility for supervision on workers and neighbors.
What impact do these robberies have on the Cuban population?
The thefts in warehouses exacerbate the food supply crisis in Cuba, increasing food insecurity and social unrest. The loss of rationed products creates greater uncertainty among the population, which is already facing severe restrictions in accessing basic food items. Additionally, the lack of replenishment of the stolen products by the State worsens the situation.
What are the provinces most affected by warehouse thefts in Cuba?
The provinces most affected by thefts in warehouses in Cuba are Holguín, Las Tunas, Santiago de Cuba, Guantánamo, and Mayabeque. Holguín tops the list with 33 reported thefts, reflecting a worrying trend in these regions, where insecurity and a lack of resources are more pronounced.
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