In a recent operation, the Cuban Ministry of the Interior (MININT) successfully dismantled a criminal network involved in the theft and illegal slaughter of cattle in Santa Clara. As announced by state spokesperson Henry Omar Pérez on Facebook, the operation, conducted in collaboration with other forces, led to the arrest of three individuals engaged in these unlawful activities, whose identities remain undisclosed.
Authorities confiscated over 300 pounds of beef, highlighting the significant demand for this illegally obtained product among the populace, who often have limited access to beef. According to police sources, the arrested individuals operated strategically near the national highway and the Santa Clara beltway, using these routes to carry out thefts and distribute the meat.
Investigations revealed a well-organized group with clearly defined roles: some members focused on theft, others on slaughtering, and others on distribution. This criminal scheme, according to MININT, was significantly impacting local farmers' economies and the region's livestock integrity. Although the report does not state it, the lack of access to beef among the population fuels this illicit market.
Lieutenant Colonel Héctor de la Fe, MININT's delegate in Santa Clara, stated, "These criminal gangs posed a serious threat to the peace of our farmers. Their modus operandi was well-structured, with members dedicated to theft, slaughter, and distribution of meat. Thanks to the expertise of our forces, we acted effectively."
De la Fe emphasized the importance of community cooperation, noting that information from farmers was crucial in identifying the gang's operating points and planning the operation. The official boasted of MININT's commitment to ensuring the safety and peace of Santa Clara's residents.
In recent months, incidents of cattle theft and illegal slaughter have surged in Cuba, reflecting the agricultural crisis and growing insecurity in rural areas. A farmer in Sancti Spíritus reported the slaughter of several of his cattle, including two pregnant cows and three young bulls, urging the government to take concrete measures against these crimes.
According to his testimony, the impunity of thieves is a major factor affecting livestock farming on the island, leaving producers extremely vulnerable. In December 2024, authorities in Holguín arrested a man transporting three sacks of beef on a cart, a crime severely penalized in Cuba due to restrictions on the commercialization of this product.
This arrest is part of an increased surveillance effort and exemplary trials promoted by the government to deter illegal meat trade. Nonetheless, the black market continues to thrive due to shortages at official sales points and the high cost of meat on the island.
Similarly, in Santiago de Cuba, police recovered two oxen that were about to be slaughtered illegally in a Songo-La Maya residence. Official reports indicate these incidents are part of a broader trend, with over 9,000 individuals involved in cattle-related crimes in the past year. Authorities have launched operations like the "National Exercise for Crime Prevention and Combat" to strengthen control over these illegal activities.
Understanding the Illegal Cattle Trade in Cuba
Why is there a demand for illegally slaughtered beef in Cuba?
The demand for illegally slaughtered beef in Cuba stems from limited access to meat through official channels and high prices, making illegal sources a more accessible option for many residents.
What are the consequences of being caught with illegal beef in Cuba?
In Cuba, being caught with illegal beef can result in severe penalties, including arrest and prosecution, given the strict regulations on beef commercialization.
How have recent operations impacted the illegal meat market in Cuba?
Recent operations have led to arrests and increased vigilance, which may deter some illegal activity, but the black market persists due to ongoing shortages and high meat prices.