Several young individuals from the Cumanayagua municipality in Cienfuegos have been apprehended and accused of being part of a gang responsible for a series of home burglaries in the area. The pro-government Facebook profile "Las Cosas de Fernanda" released a video identifying three of the detainees as Luis Miguel Morales Téllez, also known as "El Sárnico," Asniel Becerra "El Tenca," and Roberto Martínez "El Pollo," along with Carlos Manuel "El Cute" and others involved.
The alleged gang operated during nighttime, targeting unoccupied homes where they managed to steal televisions, appliances, and cash. According to this source, which reports the events in a style reminiscent of the TV show Tras la Huella, "the criminals would monitor the residents and those watching over the houses before committing their crimes."
Among the victims is a private business owner, a local doctor who lost nearly $30,000 and almost a million Cuban pesos, and several other residents. "The affected parties hope that the investigations will allow them to recover some of what they lost to these criminals," the profile states, while also praising the work of the Cuban police, often criticized for their slow processes and leniency towards the rising crime and violence in the country.
Increased Crime During Blackouts
Last August, the Cuban state media acknowledged that thieves in the Cienfuegos province exploited power outages to rob occupied homes, even with residents inside. An official report by the newspaper 5 de Septiembre included testimonies from several victims who were asleep during a blackout, often with doors open due to the intense heat, only to find themselves robbed.
According to the report, at least ten families have endured this traumatic experience. Many of them reclaimed their belongings during a public return event held around that time by the Ministry of the Interior (MININT) in Parque Villuendas, the area where most of the thefts occurred.
However, the insecurity extends beyond thefts. Also in August, residents of the Cruces municipality aided a man who had been stabbed on the street during a blackout. The man was stumbling down the street before collapsing at a corner, barely able to call for help.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crime in Cienfuegos
Given the rise in criminal activities in Cienfuegos, many residents and interested parties have pressing questions. Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers.
What measures are being taken to combat the rise in crime in Cienfuegos?
The Cuban police, along with the Ministry of the Interior, are conducting investigations and public return events to help victims recover stolen property. However, their effectiveness has been questioned due to slow processes and perceived leniency.
How are power outages contributing to the crime wave?
Thieves are taking advantage of power outages to target homes while residents are asleep and vulnerable. The darkness and often open doors due to heat make it easier for criminals to enter homes undetected.
What can residents do to protect themselves during blackouts?
Residents are advised to secure their homes as much as possible, even during blackouts. This includes locking doors and windows and being vigilant about any suspicious activity in their neighborhoods.