Surveillance cameras installed at a home in Havana captured a man stealing a washing machine from the patio on Wednesday night. Danay Zerquera shared the video on her Facebook wall, seeking help to identify the thief.
"Early this morning, my mother and family in Cuba were victims of a robbery. An individual entered through the neighboring house, cut the fence, and then broke into my house to steal the washing machine," Danay detailed.
Danay has announced a reward for anyone who can identify the man. "What he didn't expect was to be caught on camera. I am making this public so people can be aware of these kinds of thieves; what happened to me can happen to you," she emphasized.
The recording shows a young man dressed in shorts, a t-shirt, and a cap, breaking the fence before taking the washing machine, which he covered with a plastic sheet to protect it from the rain.
Amid the ongoing scarcity in Cuba, the rise in crime has left the public on edge. Due to the inefficiency and negligence of the authorities, some residents are taking matters into their own hands by installing surveillance cameras, which have helped to identify criminals acting with total impunity.
In April, a video surveillance camera at a parking lot in El Vedado, Havana, recorded a man stealing electric bike chargers. In February, another man was caught on camera attempting to steal from a parked car. The vehicle's owner shared two photos of the suspect on Facebook, mentioning that the thief arrived in a Moskvitch car.
"Last night [Saturday], this individual in a Moskvitch tried to break into my car by forcing the locks. Fortunately, he couldn't open it but stole the gas tank cap. Stay alert," warned the car owner.
On January 19, a man approached a tricycle parked in front of a house in the Diez de Octubre municipality, Havana, and took several items from its trunk before casually walking away with the loot. The theft occurred in broad daylight, according to footage from a camera installed outside a neighboring home.
Addressing the Rise of Theft in Havana
Given the increase in theft and the inefficacy of law enforcement, residents are seeking alternative ways to protect their property. Here are some frequently asked questions about the situation:
Why are thefts increasing in Havana?
The rise in thefts is largely attributed to the economic scarcity and the inefficient response of the authorities in addressing crime.
How effective are surveillance cameras in preventing theft?
Surveillance cameras can be quite effective in identifying perpetrators and deterring theft, although they do not guarantee prevention.
What should residents do if they experience a theft?
Residents should report the theft to the authorities, share any surveillance footage on social media for public awareness, and consider installing security systems.