A visually impaired man fell victim to an attack by a group of minors this past Monday at about 6:30 p.m. while he was seated on a sidewalk near his home in Cárdenas, Matanzas. This incident was reported by a family member on social media. Lázaro Corrales, the victim's nephew, shared details in the Facebook group "compra y venta en CARDENAS," stating that neighbors pursued the four adolescent attackers after hearing the man's cries for help.
One of the assailants was reportedly carrying a concealed weapon within a shoulder bag. Although he attempted to intimidate those confronting him, he eventually fled along with the others through López and Cristina streets. Corrales expressed frustration that the current laws prevent effective legal action against the youths due to their age, despite the serious nature of their actions and the presence of a weapon.
The report also highlighted the alarming lack of security that residents in the area experience, feeling unprotected even at their own doorsteps, day or night. Furthermore, attempts to contact the police were thwarted by the unavailability of both landline and mobile phone services.
Community Urges Authorities to Take Action
The family member called on local authorities, including the police and sector chiefs, to take measures such as inspecting the documents and bags of these youth gangs carrying weapons. He also cautioned residents against venturing out alone at night. This incident underscores a growing concern for safety in Cárdenas, where citizens feel increasingly vulnerable to such violent acts.
Rising violence in Cuba, closely tied to the worsening economic crisis, is a phenomenon acknowledged by the regime, which has shown limited ability to respond effectively. In some cases, communities have resorted to taking justice into their own hands. Recently, in Santiago de Cuba, residents captured two alleged thieves, holding them until the police arrived.
In another incident last week, people in Havana apprehended a young man accused of robbing high school students on the street. This 18-year-old was reportedly mugging teenagers at knifepoint to steal their mobile phones. The growing trend of vigilante justice highlights the desperation and lack of trust in official channels to ensure public safety.