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Various regulatory agencies conducted an operation against illegal activities and social indiscipline in different areas of Santiago de Cuba, and instead of being pleased with the detection of these irregularities, Cubans criticized the regime for the minimal impact of these measures.
The official page Santiago de Cuba – Noticias #Hoy reported on Facebook about an operation at commercial and transport points in areas such as Escario and San Agustín streets, Céspedes, Garzón, Martí, and Trocha avenues, as well as the heritage corridor Las Enramadas and markets in Vista Hermosa, Micro 9, Los Olmos, Rajayoga, and Yarayo.
Inspectors detected violations in both the state and private sectors. Among the reported irregularities were price manipulations of basic products such as oil, chicken, sausages, powdered milk, spaghetti, detergent, ground beef, and agricultural foods.
Other frequent violations were also identified: the rejection of electronic payments by vendors, the use of weights without official certification, excessive charges in private transportation, and the withholding of products such as eggs that were not displayed for sale.
The authorities reported that fines were imposed, goods were confiscated, forced sales of merchandise were conducted, and several business licenses were suspended.
The post sparked a wide debate among citizens. Some supported the inspections and called for them to be conducted more frequently to curb price abuses. However, other comments were more critical and highlighted structural problems.
"If the private sector comes to a halt, we're in trouble, because the government practically guarantees nothing for the people," expressed a user.
Another questioned why many state stores sell products in dollars or MLC, while salaries are paid in Cuban pesos.
There were also reports of corruption among inspectors and that in some places, advance notice is given about the operations.
The debate reflects the discomfort of many Cubans regarding the uncontrollable prices, the scarcity of basic products, and the contradictions of the commercial system in Cuba.
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