A Havana family experienced a terrifying ordeal early Tuesday morning when they caught a would-be burglar attempting to break into their home through the bedroom window while they were asleep with their young children. The incident took place around 4:20 a.m., as Claudia Fernández García shared on Facebook. In her post, Fernández described how she suddenly awoke and, with her husband, managed to catch the intruder just before he entered the room where their 1-year-old and 6-year-old were also sleeping.
"The individual tried to climb through our bedroom window, and as you can see in the video, he climbs up quickly and then retreats just as fast," Fernández wrote, expressing gratitude for the support from neighbors and family who shared surveillance footage capturing the event. The video circulating on social media shows a man, wearing a face mask and cap, scaling the facade of a building to reach a first-floor balcony. After briefly surveying the area, he drops back to the ground and walks away calmly. In earlier footage, he is seen passing by twice, likely scouting the area beforehand.
Fernández warned about the danger posed by the burglar's attempt, despite knowing there were occupants due to the sound of the air conditioning running. "These are very challenging times, and some people, rather than earning an honest living, choose to take what we have worked hard for," she lamented.
Rising Trend of Break-Ins
This incident is part of a troubling pattern of burglaries recently captured by surveillance cameras across Havana and other provinces. In January, at least three break-ins were recorded at homes and cafes in the capital, with thieves striking in the dead of night or even in broad daylight, as seen in the neighborhoods of Vedado and on 23rd Street.
Similar episodes were reported in 2024, including the theft of a bicycle in Las Tunas and an attempted burglary in another Havana home. These recordings have been crucial in raising public awareness, though few have led to the apprehension of the culprits. Such incidents highlight growing public concern over the perceived lack of safety and the ineffective response from authorities.
Understanding the Surge in Havana Burglaries
Why are burglaries increasing in Havana?
The rise in burglaries in Havana may be attributed to economic hardships and a lack of effective law enforcement, leading some individuals to resort to criminal activities.
How are residents responding to the crime wave?
Residents are increasingly relying on security measures such as surveillance cameras and community vigilance to protect themselves and alert others of potential threats.
Are authorities taking action against the burglaries?
Despite public concern, there is a perception that authorities are not adequately addressing the issue, with few arrests being made in connection to these crimes.