This past Friday witnessed a shocking incident at the bustling La Cuevita market in San Miguel del Padrón, Havana, where an inspector assaulted a vendor with a knife. This attack transpired amidst a nationwide campaign aimed at tackling crime, corruption, illegal activities, and social misconduct.
Alex Fernández reported on the Facebook group "Comida a Domicilio En La Habana" that the altercation resulted in the vendor's death. However, Arnaldo Núñez commented to clarify, "My cousin was the injured young man, but thankfully he is out of danger. Thank you for your support; this guy is trying to shift the blame."
A witness, who goes by the name Yami La Dura, shared her firsthand account: "I saw everything and recorded it; the inspector was to blame. He attacked with a bayonet aimed at the neck. It was terrifying, and I'm still shaken up."
Many questioned why the inspector was armed with such a weapon. Annie Aguilera Tamayo voiced her frustration, stating, "Most of them are criminals, untrained people. That's what this country produces... criminals, thieves, scoundrels. We no longer have competent staff in any establishment, schools, or hospitals. We have nothing left. Additionally, due to need and hunger, there is also brutality and savagery."
This is not the first time violence has erupted between vendors and inspectors. In August, a Las Tunas municipal inspector was attacked by a vendor while attempting to impose a penalty, as reported by the local Administrative Council.
The official statement revealed that the inspector, Manuel Vilches García, was conducting a routine inspection of a self-employed worker in the Popular Council 2 area and discovered several violations.
Just last Tuesday, tensions flared in Santiago as residents clashed with National Police officers over recent confiscations and steep fines imposed on street vendors.
Journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada shared a video on Facebook capturing the public's outrage over these unwarranted actions against self-employed workers, including the infamous 'carretilleros' or handcart vendors.
This current "crusade" in Cuba is part of a national effort to combat crime, corruption, and social indiscipline, spearheaded by the government under Miguel Díaz-Canel. The initiative is perceived as an attempt to divert attention from recent scandals involving Sandro Castro, grandson of the late dictator Fidel Castro, who celebrated his birthday extravagantly amidst the country's energy crisis.
Understanding the Tensions at La Cuevita Market
What led to the violent incident at La Cuevita market?
The incident was triggered when an inspector attacked a vendor with a knife during a national campaign against crime and corruption.
How did the public react to the inspector's actions?
The public expressed outrage, questioning why the inspector was armed, and criticizing the lack of competent personnel in the country.
Are such violent incidents common in Cuba?
Violence involving vendors and inspectors is not uncommon, with similar incidents reported, highlighting broader social tensions.