A Cuban driver, who had publicly challenged a fine imposed by the police while transporting two individuals in his vintage car in Havana, was detained this Saturday and charged with contempt. The man, identified as "Pablo Miguel," revealed on his Facebook profile that he was fined 8,000 pesos for operating as an unlicensed taxi. He recounted that he had gone to the Zapata and C police station for what he thought was a routine interview.
Upon arrival, however, he was informed that he faced contempt charges. On Friday, the driver had live-streamed on Facebook the moment when two officers from the National Revolutionary Police (PNR), a man and a woman, issued him the fine. The young man protested and questioned why he couldn't pick up passengers in his private vehicle. "They stop you and ask for a taxi permit as if they were inspectors; patrol cars are not meant for that," he added.
He further questioned the legitimacy of the fine, asserting that he hadn't breached any traffic laws. Unfazed by threats of arrest, the driver described the ticketing system in Cuba as a "mafia." He also complained about the exorbitant cost of gasoline, stating, "Now you have to drive an empty car when you're buying fuel at $1.10 a liter for them."
Following the announcement of his detention, dozens of internet users rallied in his support, urging him to stay calm. "Stay calm, my love, serenity and intelligence. Remember your family is waiting for you. Take deep breaths and stay patient, everything will be okay. Stay sensible, my dear, as this isn't good for any of you," commented one supporter.
Later that afternoon, another user commented on the detention post, noting that he had not yet been released from police custody as his case was "in process."
As the transportation crisis worsens on the island, with a severe shortage of buses, endless queues, and skyrocketing prices in the private sector, inspectors have intensified their crackdown on rental transportation irregularities.
Key Issues Surrounding Transportation in Cuba
Why was the driver fined in Havana?
The driver was fined 8,000 pesos for allegedly operating as an unlicensed taxi while transporting passengers in his private vehicle.
How did the driver respond to the police fine?
The driver protested the fine, live-streaming his interaction with the officers on Facebook and questioning the legitimacy of the charges.
What challenges are faced by the transportation sector in Cuba?
Cuba's transportation sector is plagued by a shortage of buses, long queues, and high prices in the private sector, leading to increased scrutiny by inspectors on rental transportation.
What support did the driver receive from the public?
After his detention, numerous internet users expressed their support, advising the driver to remain calm and patient while facing legal proceedings.