At least 18 individuals lost their lives in Cuba during the month of July as a result of the escalating wave of violence affecting the island. The Cuban Conflict Observatory (OCC) reported this number of violent deaths, along with 521 protests and public denunciations in the seventh month of the year, as cited by Martí Noticias.
"A total of 18 Cubans were killed in violent incidents documented by the OCC in July, resulting from sudden brawls, score-settling, femicides (3), or were killed during robberies. Additionally, three people were hit by motor vehicles, and the drivers fled the scene," the report detailed.
It highlights that other equally violent incidents did not result in fatalities but demonstrated the heightened tension among many Cubans amidst the island's widespread crisis.
Violence in Santiago de Cuba Carnival
According to the publication, the Santiago de Cuba carnival became a hotbed of almost daily skirmishes between groups of youths, a growing manifestation of social violence.
Journalist Rolando Cartaya, author of the monthly report supported by the Foundation for Human Rights in Cuba, told Martí Noticias that there were 13 cases of missing persons this month, six of whom were women and girls, something unprecedented in Cuba.
The organization highlights that the theft of electric scooters has increased on the island, with some individuals injured in the process. The OCC considers it very challenging to curb criminality in Cuba under the current circumstances, regardless of the pressure exerted on the police to resolve this issue.
"The population is also on edge, fearful that if a child goes out, they might not return," he expressed.
During July, the ruler Miguel Díaz-Canel confirmed before the National Assembly the rise in violence, crime, and addictions in the country. The police acknowledged that some vandalism acts sometimes involved the use of firearms.
The expressions of discontent included dissatisfaction over hunger, repression, lack of water, electricity, and medications, among other reasons indicated by the OCC.
Understanding the Surge in Violence in Cuba
To provide further insight into the troubling rise in violence in Cuba, here are some frequently asked questions and their answers.
What are the main causes of the increased violence in Cuba?
The main causes include sudden brawls, score-settling, femicides, and robberies. Additionally, the general crisis in the country contributes to the heightened tension and criminal activity.
How many protests and public denunciations were recorded in July?
The Cuban Conflict Observatory recorded 521 protests and public denunciations in July.
What specific incidents were noted during the Santiago de Cuba carnival?
The Santiago de Cuba carnival saw almost daily skirmishes between groups of youths, highlighting a growing trend of social violence.
What measures are being taken to address the rise in violence?
Despite increased pressure on the police, the OCC considers it very challenging to curb criminality given the current context. The government has acknowledged the issue but specific measures remain unclear.