The Catholic News Agency has reported that since March of last year, more than 50 incidents of theft and vandalism have been recorded in churches across Cuba. According to the report, at least 50 cases of theft and vandalism have occurred in 34 parishes and religious houses in Cuba since March 2023. Most of these incidents have taken place in Havana, with authorities failing to take action to curb this phenomenon.
The report claims that nearly twenty of these crimes have been committed by a single man who enjoys impunity because the police never arrive in time to catch him. On June 22, the alleged thief was detained by several citizens but had to be released when authorities failed to show up. The very next day, the man attempted to rob another chapel.
The report highlights that the thefts have focused on home appliances, bedding, and other household items and have spread across the country, particularly in Camagüey, Mayabeque, and the capital. Since last year, complaints about these thefts have surfaced, especially from Cuban priest Kenny Fernández, who has denounced the prevailing impunity in the country, where the police have not taken action to apprehend those responsible for four robberies in the churches of Mayabeque.
In a Facebook post, Father Fernández criticized the National Revolutionary Police in January for not responding to "two thefts that occurred at my Parish House in Madruga, Mayabeque, between September and November last year; and the other two thefts at the Church of Catalina de Güines," also in 2023. He stated that the country "has become more insecure due to the impunity enjoyed by some criminals."
Additionally, he posted a video of a thief caught on camera stealing for the second time in the same residence, yet the individual remains free.
Theft and Vandalism in Cuban Catholic Churches: Key Questions Answered
In light of the recent alarming reports of theft and vandalism in Cuban Catholic churches, we address some key questions that provide further insight into the situation.
What has been stolen from the churches?
The thefts have primarily targeted home appliances, bedding, and other household items.
Where have most of these incidents occurred?
Most of these incidents have taken place in Havana, with other notable occurrences in Camagüey and Mayabeque.
Why has the thief not been apprehended?
The police have consistently failed to arrive in time to catch the thief, leading to a sense of impunity.
How has the local community reacted?
Local citizens have attempted to detain the thief themselves, but were forced to release him when the authorities did not arrive.