Amid the escalating violence in Cuba, a motorbike driver reported being tasered by an assailant who then stole the vehicle in Matanzas province. Yilian Hernández, a close associate of the vehicle's owner, Alexis Pérez, shared with CiberCuba that the incident occurred last Monday night at around 9:30 p.m. in the Peñas Altas motorbike station, located in Matanzas.
Hernández recounted, "A dark-skinned man requested a motorcycle taxi service," but what seemed like a routine ride quickly turned into a violent robbery. The driver, who was on his shift, took the passenger along Vía Blanca. Upon reaching the Transmetros base, the supposed customer asked him to slow down, and then suddenly immobilized him with a taser to the neck.
Stunned, Pérez had no choice but to throw himself off the bike to avoid further harm. At this point, two accomplices who were waiting nearby hopped on the motorbike and fled, while the attacker escaped on foot. The vehicle's owners informed the police, who reportedly "didn't offer much hope," and have since been searching for the motorbike throughout Matanzas city.
Hernández urged anyone with information regarding the motorbike's whereabouts to contact them at +53 55217701. They have also promised a reward for anyone providing details that lead to its recovery.
Over the past two years, motorbike thefts have surged across the island. On Wednesday, news surfaced that a man in Guantánamo received a 20-year prison sentence for violent motorbike robberies.
Motorbike Thefts in Cuba: Rising Concerns
What measures are being taken to address motorbike thefts in Cuba?
There is no clear indication of new measures being implemented by authorities to tackle the surge in motorbike thefts, leading to frustration among the victims.
How common are incidents of taser-related robberies in Cuba?
Instances of taser-related robberies have been increasing, reflecting the growing violence and insecurity in the country.