A Cuban father named Noel Darromán has publicly condemned the police's failure to act on a dire situation involving his son. According to Darromán, his son, under the influence of drugs, attempted to attack and potentially kill his stepfather. Despite making several visits to the El Capri police station in Matanzas, Darromán claims he received no effective response from the authorities.
In a Facebook video, Darromán stated, "I'm speaking from outside the El Capri station, where I've come to report that my son is using drugs and, as a result, wants to harm and kill people. I've been here more than four times, and they always tell me the same thing." Frustrated by the lack of police action, he turned to the prosecutor's office for assistance, only to encounter bureaucratic obstacles. He expressed his dismay, saying, "I called the prosecutor's office and explained the problem (...). Right now, two people are trying to kill each other, and they have to follow a protocol, wait for approval, and hope a patrol car is dispatched while the violence continues."
Darromán also criticized how police resources are used, sharing that he witnessed a patrol car transporting two young women while his plea for help was ignored. "I just saw them pick up two attractive young women and take them home, but they won't send a unit to where my son is high," he complained.
He further lamented the authorities' immediate response only in cases involving state property protection. "If you plan something against the government, they act instantly. But for regular citizens, it's a drawn-out process. If you report a store being broken into, they rush because that's their asset to protect. Personal safety and youth don’t matter to them," he added.
Recently, the discussion around public safety in Cuba has intensified, focusing on police violence and drug trafficking. The synthetic drug known as "El Químico" has become alarmingly prevalent, leading to shocking scenes of young people severely intoxicated in public. A viral video from Old Havana showed a young man convulsing from the drug's effects, reviving debate about drug control on the island. The drug's rising popularity and easy access have prompted urgent calls for a stronger state response.
Authorities have increased anti-drug operations in several Havana municipalities. Recent raids have resulted in the seizure of large quantities of drugs, including cocaine and "El Químico," as well as significant cash sums. In 2024, the Ministry of the Interior reported confiscating over a ton of drugs and arresting 1,157 people related to drug trafficking. However, many citizens perceive these efforts as inadequate or believe the police prioritize political issues over public safety.
The debate over the role of the Cuban police has escalated with the recent release of footage showing police brutality in Havana. A viral video captured officers violently beating a young construction worker who offered no resistance. This incident has sparked widespread outrage and numerous accusations of the Revolutionary National Police's impunity and the lack of official responses to such actions.
The stark contrast between the police's inefficiency regarding community issues and their violent actions against ordinary citizens reinforces the perception that authorities prioritize state interests over the well-being of the population. While measures like the creation of the National Drug Observatory are being implemented, doubts remain about the Cuban government's ability to tackle narcotrafficking without infringing on citizens' rights.
Public Safety Concerns and Police Response in Cuba
Why did Noel Darromán criticize the Cuban police?
Noel Darromán criticized the Cuban police for their inaction and failure to respond effectively to the dangerous situation posed by his son, who was attempting to harm his stepfather under the influence of drugs.
What drug is causing concern in Cuba?
The synthetic drug known as "El Químico" is causing significant concern in Cuba due to its widespread use and the severe intoxication it causes among young people.
How have the Cuban authorities responded to drug trafficking?
Cuban authorities have increased anti-drug operations, seizing large amounts of drugs and arresting numerous individuals involved in trafficking. However, public perception suggests these efforts are insufficient.
What recent incident has intensified the debate about police violence in Cuba?
A recent viral video showing Cuban police officers violently beating a young construction worker has intensified the debate about police violence and impunity in the country.