On Thursday, Cuba's General Customs of the Republic announced the discovery of an international drug trafficking operation. This operation was uncovered at Havana's José Martí International Airport, where a package from the United States was found containing papers laced with illegal substances, cleverly concealed in disposable diapers.
According to a statement shared on social media platform X by the deputy head of Customs, William Pérez González, the discovery was made possible through a collaborative effort with specialized forces of the Ministry of the Interior (MININT). "The unity and intelligence of the joint efforts between Cuban Customs and MININT's anti-drug agency led to the detection of 31 sheets of paper soaked in synthetic cannabinoids, or 'chemical' drugs, hidden within diaper packages from the U.S. through Havana airport," the official stated.
Cuban authorities underscored that this operation is part of the Drug Illicit Prevention and Confrontation Exercise aimed at bolstering border controls. Customs reiterated their Zero Tolerance policy towards drugs and emphasized their commitment to continue detecting and combating narcotics trafficking in all its forms.
Last week, Cuban customs officials reported a rise in the entry of drugs into the country via air travel. The most common method involves "blind mules," individuals who unknowingly transport narcotics by selling space in their luggage to carry packages to Cuba.
Isnavis Chacón, head of Customs at Havana's José Martí International Airport, cautioned travelers that they are solely responsible for the items they carry and urged them to reconsider the risks of accepting packages for money.
In recent months, there have been numerous reports of individuals under the influence of drugs on the streets of Cuba. The consumption of "El Químico" has raised alarms due to its severe impact on the physical and mental health of young people. Cuban doctors have explained that this substance belongs to a group of synthetic cannabinoids, designed to mimic the effects of marijuana, yet are significantly more potent and hazardous.
Understanding Drug Trafficking Challenges in Cuba
What methods are commonly used for drug trafficking into Cuba?
One prevalent method is using "blind mules," where individuals unknowingly transport drugs by selling space in their luggage to carry packages into Cuba.
What is "El Químico" and why is it alarming?
"El Químico" is a synthetic cannabinoid designed to imitate marijuana's effects but is much more potent and dangerous, leading to severe health issues among young people in Cuba.
How is Cuban Customs addressing drug trafficking?
Cuban Customs maintains a Zero Tolerance policy towards drugs and collaborates with the Ministry of the Interior to strengthen border controls and detect trafficking operations.