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A clandestine network dedicated to the illegal trafficking of liquefied gas was dismantled by authorities in the provinces of Cienfuegos and Sancti Spíritus.
According to what was revealed this Monday by the official profile Las Cosas de Fernanda on Facebook, the operation involved overloading gas cylinders beyond their safe limit.
Instead of the standard 60 pounds, some tanks were filled with up to 80, significantly increasing the risk of explosions.
Gas, turned into a highly sought-after commodity due to scarcity, was being transported in vehicles to unauthorized destinations, where it was transferred and sold in the informal market at prices well above the state value. Meanwhile, the legal cylinders circulated normally, arousing no suspicion.
The intervention of the economic police put an end to these illegal operations, which not only constituted a crime but also posed a serious threat to public safety.
The authorities continue their investigations to determine the full scope of the network and those involved.
In recent months, several provinces have faced the rise of networks dedicated to the trafficking and manipulation of liquefied gas, which has become an increasingly coveted resource.
In Artemisa, a point manager was accused of organizing an internal fraud, simulating a theft to cover up the appropriation of at least 40 cylinders.
Similarly, in Havana, similar operations were documented, such as the , which highlights the nationwide extent of the issue.
Alongside these crimes, the very state distribution system has generated tensions. In Villa Clara, the authorities decided to reorganize and restrict the sale of liquefied gas, which increased discontent among consumers and reinforced the perception of scarcity.
More recently, a report highlighted how access to fuel has become a fertile ground for inequality and corruption, putting families with fewer resources at a disadvantage and creating a parallel market where prices far exceed official values.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Illegal Trade of Liquefied Gas in Cuba
How did the clandestine network for trafficking liquefied gas operate in Cienfuegos and Sancti Spíritus?
The clandestine network overloaded gas cylinders beyond their safe limit, filling some to 80 pounds instead of the regulatory 60, which increased the risk of explosions. The gas was transported in vehicles to unauthorized destinations and sold in the informal market at prices significantly higher than the state value.
What risks does illegal gas trafficking pose to the population?
Illegal traffic of liquefied gas poses a serious danger to public safety due to the overloading of cylinders, which increases the risk of explosions. Furthermore, by operating in the informal market, unsafe conditions are created for the transportation and handling of gas.
What is the current situation of liquefied gas supply in Cuba?
Cuba is facing a liquefied gas supply crisis, with prolonged outages and limited distribution. The provinces rely on the timely arrival of vessels for resupply, which creates uncertainty and shortages at the national level. Authorities have implemented restrictive measures, but the situation remains critical.
What actions have the Cuban authorities taken in response to the liquefied gas crisis?
Authorities have intensified police operations to dismantle illegal networks and have implemented restrictive measures on the distribution of liquefied gas, prioritizing essential sectors such as Health and Education. However, the dependence on imports and the lack of liquidity remain significant obstacles to resolving the crisis.
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