A corruption scandal in the Mariel Special Development Zone (ZEDM) has resulted in an embezzlement of more than 21 million Cuban pesos and several workers being sanctioned.
According to El Artemiseño, the investigation began in 2023 when the Artemisa Electrical Company was targeted by a misappropriation scheme involving high-ranking officials and workers, exposing the vulnerability of the internal control system.
The Chief of the Warehouse at the Base Business Unit (UEB) of the ZEDM, exploiting his access to the Sinscont5 accounting system, manipulated inventory records to appropriate resources meant for energy development.
This criminal act caused an economic damage estimated at 21,127,548.47 CUP, significantly impacting the nation's energy infrastructure. Three specialized electrical linemen from the same unit collaborated in diverting resources, using State vehicles to transport and sell the products in the informal market.
The corruption acts involved six directors and other workers who failed in their supervisory responsibilities. In total, thirteen people were charged with crimes such as forging bank documents, embezzlement, failing to safeguard assets of economic entities, receiving stolen goods, and theft.
Four of the accused are in provisional detention. The case is being presented to the Criminal Chamber of the Artemisa Provincial Court by the Prosecutor's Office for the filing of charges and the holding of an oral trial. The requested sentences range from eight to eighteen years of imprisonment, with corrective labor measures for other defendants.
This scandal underscores the urgent need to strengthen control and supervision mechanisms in all Cuban economic entities, where cases of misappropriation are on the rise. The Artemisa Electrical Company stated that it has taken measures to correct the deficiencies that allowed this corruption, but did not specify what those actions are.
FAQs on the ZED Mariel Corruption Scandal
In light of the recent corruption scandal in the Mariel Special Development Zone, here are some frequently asked questions and their answers to provide a better understanding of the situation.
What triggered the investigation into the ZED Mariel corruption scandal?
The investigation was triggered in 2023 when the Artemisa Electrical Company became a victim of a misappropriation scheme involving high-ranking officials and workers.
How much economic damage was caused by the embezzlement?
The embezzlement caused economic damage estimated at 21,127,548.47 CUP, significantly affecting the nation's energy infrastructure.
Who are the main individuals involved in the scandal?
The main individuals involved include the Chief of the Warehouse at the Base Business Unit of ZEDM and three specialized electrical linemen, among others.
What are the potential consequences for those involved in the corruption?
The requested sentences range from eight to eighteen years of imprisonment, with corrective labor measures for other defendants.