The rampant thefts in grocery stores across Las Tunas have escalated into a severe issue, impacting the economy and the daily lives of families in the province. In 2023 alone, there were 97 reported thefts in these establishments, resulting in significant losses and leaving many families without essential supplies. Already in 2024, 18 similar incidents have been reported.
Raymel Espinosa Saborit, the Director of Commerce in Las Tunas, told Periódico 26 that these thefts have caused economic damage exceeding two million pesos across the eight municipalities of the province. This figure accounts for 84.7% of the total losses due to theft and embezzlement in 2023, further complicating the replenishment of food supplies for consumers.
Major Products Stolen
Among the stolen goods are over 43,900 pounds of brown sugar, 2,900 pounds of refined sugar, 30,000 pounds of rice, 927 liters of oil, more than 1,000 packages of coffee, and 1,180 pounds of beans. These robberies not only affect the stores but also the families that rely on these products for their essential needs.
Puerto Padre is the hardest-hit area, with around 30 grocery stores looted and economic losses amounting to 579,890 pesos. This situation raises questions about the conditions and security measures of state-owned establishments.
Out of the 692 grocery stores in Las Tunas, more than 100 are in poor condition, featuring weak structures and inadequate security measures. The absence of bars, locks, and alarm systems, coupled with a shortage of security personnel, makes these community stores easy targets for thieves.
The official mentioned plans to create some security guard positions, following the example of the Colombia municipality, where all 44 stores have their own security agents. However, the problem persists due to the lack of individuals willing to take on this role.
The thefts usually occur between 2:00 and 6:00 AM, primarily in urban areas. Even in stores with security guards, criminals have managed to break in when the guards leave their posts or fall asleep.
This issue is not isolated to Las Tunas; there are reports of grocery store thefts in all provinces across the country. Recently, there was news of thefts of rationed food in Santiago de Cuba, specifically on Carretera Central del Kilómetro 6, Las Cuevas.
These grocery store raids are happening amid a severe food shortage in Cuba, coupled with inflation that leaves thousands of families without access to basic products.
Impact of Grocery Store Thefts in Las Tunas
The following questions and answers provide additional insights into the recent surge of grocery store thefts in Las Tunas and its broader implications.
What has been the economic impact of the grocery store thefts in Las Tunas?
The economic impact has been significant, with losses exceeding two million pesos across the eight municipalities of Las Tunas, accounting for 84.7% of total losses due to theft and embezzlement in 2023.
Which area in Las Tunas has been the most affected by these thefts?
Puerto Padre has been the most affected area, with around 30 grocery stores looted and economic losses totaling 579,890 pesos.
What measures are being taken to improve security in grocery stores?
Plans to create security guard positions are underway, inspired by the Colombia municipality where all 44 stores have security agents. However, the issue remains due to a lack of willing personnel.
Are these thefts confined to Las Tunas?
No, similar thefts have been reported in grocery stores across all provinces of Cuba, including a recent incident in Santiago de Cuba.