A well-known hairstylist from Winnipeg, Canada, was tragically killed on March 2nd while on a holiday trip to Cuba. Rui Andrade, the victim, seemingly fell prey to a robbery, as detailed by his brother Paulo on Facebook. Paulo recounted that Rui was discovered in the resort town with a “deep cut on his left arm” that severed an artery, leading to his death shortly after being rushed to a local hospital by ambulance.
The Facebook page “Cuba First” reported the incident took place on 59th Street, near the old museum. Paulo expressed his grief, stating, “He was robbed, and this person took his life,” highlighting that no arrests had been made by Cuban authorities, from whom he hoped for more cooperation.
The Aura Hair Group, where Rui was a valued stylist, mourned the loss that has cast a shadow over the Canadian family, emphasizing the shock of losing one of their members in Cuba. “Rui dedicated many years to our team, bringing passion, kindness, and undeniable talent to everyone who sat in his chair. His warmth and laughter will be profoundly missed by his family, friends, colleagues, and clients who trusted him with more than just their hair—he was a true friend to many,” they expressed in their message.
Meanwhile, Global Affairs Canada, in a statement provided to CityNews in Winnipeg, confirmed that consular officials in the country are “providing assistance to the family of the Canadian citizen.” On Tuesday, Rui Andrade’s family and friends gathered at Assumption Cemetery to pay their respects, followed by a celebration of his life at Dos Acores on Higgins Avenue.
The incident has sparked a wave of comments questioning the safety of tourists on the island. Following the identification of the deceased, the Facebook page “Crimes and Missing Persons in Cuba” pointed out that Canadian authorities are cautioning their citizens against traveling to Cuba due to inadequate security, stating that those who do so are doing it at their own risk.
In response to Paulo’s post, one person commented, “People need to be aware that Cuba is not as safe as we like to believe. Tourists have the impression it is, and sadly, Rui and his family became victims of this terrible assumption.” Another individual remarked, “From what I can see/say, as an outsider, I think the media just wants to warn people. It seems something not very good is happening in hotels in Cuba.”
This murder is not an isolated incident in a country where violence rates are rapidly increasing, affecting both locals and foreigners. For example, in 2020, the body of a 52-year-old Canadian woman vacationing in Varadero was found buried on the beach with signs of violence. The victim, identified as Antoinette Traboulsi, was a nurse and mother of three from Montreal, Quebec. Her family had reported her missing.
According to official sources, the woman was found buried a meter deep in the sand, with bite marks on her chest and her face severely beaten.
Safety Concerns for Tourists in Cuba
How did Rui Andrade die while in Cuba?
Rui Andrade was reportedly the victim of a robbery in Varadero, where he suffered a deep cut on his left arm that severed an artery, leading to his death.
What has been the response from Canadian authorities?
Global Affairs Canada has been providing consular assistance to Rui Andrade’s family, and there have been warnings issued about the safety of traveling to Cuba.
Are there concerns about tourist safety in Cuba?
Yes, there are growing concerns about tourist safety in Cuba, with reports indicating that violence is increasing and affecting both tourists and locals.