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A Mexican tourist identified as Carlos was the victim of an attempted robbery followed by theft in complete darkness in Old Havana, amid a blackout that left the streets of the historic center entirely dark.
The incident, reported by a journalist from CubaNet who witnessed and assisted the young man, reflects the increasing climate of insecurity that permeates the Cuban capital, where power outages have multiplied opportunities for crime.
Carlos traveled to Havana with the purpose of spending a few days of tourism with his girlfriend, and he was staying in a house on Obrapía Street, between Oficios and Mercaderes.
The couple was having dinner at the restaurant La Vitrola when, at the time of payment, they realized they did not have the necessary change to settle the bill. The young man explained the situation to the waiters, who advised him not to go out due to the blackout. Despite the warning, Carlos decided to return to the lodging to look for the money.
During the journey, the tourist faced an initial attempt at robbery and had to run to escape. In the process of fleeing, he injured a leg in the darkness. This is how he recounted the incident to a reporter from CubaNet, who happened to be nearby and witnessed the event.
But the night was not over for the boy yet. Shortly after, several young people approached, pretending to want to help him and keep him company. However, they took advantage of his confusion to steal his mobile phone.
Finally, the reporter took him to the restaurant where his girlfriend was.
The video of the conversation shared on X shows the place completely dark, with only a few flashes coming from cell phones or windows of homes; a scene that confirms the vulnerability of the visitor in a Old Havana that should be one of the country's main tourist showcases.
The situation not only highlights the increase in crime on the streets but also the passivity of the authorities, whose response remains uncertain.
So far, it is unclear whether a report was made to the Police or if any investigation has been initiated.
The insecurity caused by power outages, combined with the state's inefficiency in preventing crimes in historic and tourist areas, directly affects the already deteriorating tourism industry in Cuba.
What should be a safe evening stroll in a heritage area ends up becoming an experience marked by fear and helplessness.
In a country that seeks to attract visitors as a source of income, episodes of violence during blackouts deal another blow to a sector that is struggling to recover.
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