A Cuban physical education teacher, cherished by his students and friends, was tragically murdered early Friday morning, August 30, in the city of Holguin.
Gilberto Laffita, who resided in the Peralta neighborhood of the Holguin capital, was killed during an attempted robbery at his home. Reports did not provide additional details about the victim.
Laffita was reportedly a physical education teacher at the Instituto Preuniversitario Vocacional de Ciencias Exactas (IPVCE) José Martí, the Escuela Elemental de Arte Raúl Gómez García, and the Instituto Técnico de Holguin (ITH). He also sold water near his residence, according to several comments.
The news of his death was shared in a local group. "With great sorrow, I bring you devastating news. I just received a call that he was murdered in his garden early this morning, the physical education teacher Gilberto Laffita, whom we affectionately called Laffita. Those who studied between 1994-2000 will remember him," wrote user Yudixander Sotto.
Another post in the Facebook group "Revolico Holguin" reported that the alleged murderers were detained the same day. "They already caught the killers of Professor Laffita, thanks to the neighbors' cameras," informed user Abi Romero.
The death of the beloved teacher generated widespread grief in the community and among former students who remembered his kindness. "My condolences to my colleague Matilde, her daughters, and other family members," expressed one netizen, highlighting that the deceased leaves behind a grieving family.
"Rest in peace, teacher. My condolences to the family, but we need to make this visible so that the authorities see that we are not fools, and that the full weight of the law falls on them," another person clarified.
Expressions of sympathy also called for "justice and public safety." They mentioned that the teacher was "loved, admired, and respected," and emphasized that his students and the people of Holguin demand justice.
One user reflected on the situation, stating, "There is a shortage of everything except criminals, muggers, pickpockets, murderers, and thieves who kill their victims even for a cellphone. In this country, you are not safe even in your own home. How much have you changed, Cuba?"
Just over a week ago, two mothers and their young children were murdered in the town of Ceballos, in Ciego de Ávila, in a massacre that shocked all of Cuba. Two young brothers, identified as Luis Enrique and Leudys Romero Daudinot, were arrested as the alleged perpetrators of the crime. They reportedly entered one of the families' homes to rob.
That same weekend, a young Cuban man, father of a small child, was allegedly killed in a brawl for unknown reasons.
In Holguin itself, a family in San Germán experienced moments of tension and uncertainty during a violent robbery that led to an hour-long hostage situation, according to reports on social media. The family consisted of three individuals: a woman, her husband, and a minor who is her grandchild.
Understanding the Recent Surge in Violence in Cuba
The recent tragic events in Cuba, including the murder of Professor Gilberto Laffita, have raised numerous questions and concerns. Here, we address some of the most pressing inquiries.
Who was Gilberto Laffita?
Gilberto Laffita was a well-loved physical education teacher in Holguin, known for his work at several educational institutions and his kindness towards his students and community.
What led to the increase in violent crimes in Cuba recently?
The recent surge in violent crimes in Cuba, including the murders in Ceballos and Holguin, is believed to be due to a combination of social and economic factors exacerbated by the current regime.
What measures are being taken to ensure public safety?
Authorities have increased surveillance and community reporting, but the effectiveness of these measures remains to be seen as public safety concerns continue to grow.