The Ministry of the Interior (MININT) organized a public event in the town of Claudio, Simón Bolívar popular council, in the municipality of Yaguajay, Sancti Spíritus, to return equipment that had been stolen from a 73-year-old woman in her home on September 2nd.
According to the state channel CentroVisión Yayab, the author of the robbery broke two slats of a blind to enter the home. After the investigation, a 39-year-old man was detained who confessed to having moved some of the stolen items to the municipality of Caibarién.
The return of the recovered items took place at a public event, in the presence of community members, MININT officials, and state television cameras. The event showcased an induction electric stove, two remote controls, and a light bulb, which were returned to their owner.
In statements made to the local press, the elderly woman expressed: "I feel very happy, very grateful to the entire team for the work they have done; they have done a wonderful and quick job."
This type of public act is not an isolated occurrence. In recent months, several similar events have been reported in different provinces of the country, where authorities organize ceremonies to hand over goods recovered during police investigations.
In Santiago de Cuba, the Police organized a political event to return seven stolen motorcycles and parts, as part of the National Campaign against crime and illegal activities. On that occasion, the event was covered by state media and received criticism on social media for its propagandistic tone.
In the municipality of Río Cauto, in Granma, the authorities held a ceremony to return a stolen plastic tank to a family, which sparked mockery and questions from the public.
In Las Tunas, communist leaders also publicly handed over recovered cell phones and a motorcycle, during an event with media coverage and the presence of the Communist Party.
These events have been criticized by segments of the population and independent media, who point to them as attempts by the Cuban regime to present as achievements actions that are part of the basic functions of any citizen security system.
Frequently Asked Questions about Political Actions to Return Stolen Property in Cuba
Why does the Cuban government organize political events to return stolen property?
The Cuban government uses these acts as a propaganda strategy to showcase effectiveness and control in public safety, presenting the return of stolen goods as remarkable achievements, even though it should be a normal function of the authorities. These events aim to project an image of efficiency in a context where crime and insecurity are on the rise.
How does the population react to these political acts of returning stolen goods?
The Cuban population tends to receive these acts with skepticism and criticism. Many citizens believe that these are attempts by the regime to divert attention from the real issues of insecurity and crime affecting the country. Social media often reflects criticism for the propagandistic tone and the lack of concrete solutions to the growing wave of crime.
What is the current situation of crime in Cuba?
Criminality in Cuba is on the rise, with a significant increase in thefts and other crimes. Reports from the Cuban Citizen Audit Observatory (OCAC) indicate that between January and June of 2025, 1,319 crimes were reported, including 721 thefts and 63 homicides. This rise in crime is closely linked to the economic crisis and the lack of resources.
What is the impact of these political acts on citizen security in Cuba?
These political acts do not address the underlying issue of citizen security in Cuba. The propagandistic approach does not provide real solutions to curtail the rising crime rate, and the population continues to perceive a lack of effective action from the authorities to ensure adequate protection and prevent crime.
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