On Thursday, three Cubans were apprehended during a police operation in Cocosolo Zamora, located in the Marianao district of Havana. The large-scale operation took place on Calle 144 between 37 and 39, and 144 between 39 and 41, as reported by pro-government social media commentator Elizabeth Ferrer.
The raid resulted in the arrest of a couple, a man known as "Pocholo" and his partner "Yamicel," along with a third individual known as "El Tosky." These individuals were involved in selling "papelitos," a street name for "el químico," a synthetic cannabinoid that has plagued Cuba in recent years.
Witnesses noted that in a last-ditch effort to eliminate evidence, one of the suspects attempted to dispose of the packages down a drain. However, the swift response by law enforcement prevented the loss of crucial evidence. Locals have expressed cautious optimism regarding the police's actions in the area.
The Fight Against Drug Trafficking in Marianao
According to the official source, which boasts of the police's supposed effectiveness, some residents have noticed recent measures changing the neighborhood's atmosphere, leading to a heightened sense of safety. Nevertheless, there is an expectation for these actions to be part of a sustained effort to eliminate drug trafficking in the area.
Earlier in December, it was revealed that Marianao, along with La Lisa, Arroyo Naranjo, and San Miguel del Padrón, are the Havana districts most affected by drug trafficking and consumption, as stated by a colonel from the Ministry of the Interior (MININT) on the state-run TV program "Hacemos Cuba," hosted by regime spokesperson Humberto López.
"These areas are the hubs of drug trafficking. There is a consumption culture here, where the main traffickers and users are concentrated," explained Colonel Juan Carlos Poey, head of the specialized anti-drug division. He also noted that methamphetamine use has been detected in the neighborhoods of La Güinera (Arroyo) and El Palenque (La Lisa), indicating a shift from synthetic cannabinoids to more potent drugs like methamphetamines (pills, powders, or crystal stimulants) due to increasing addiction demands.
Rising Drug Concerns in Havana
Drug trafficking operations have become more visible in recent months, with the public calling for more stringent and effective measures. In September, 22 individuals were detained in Havana for selling "el químico." In December, a man involved in drug sales in zone 4 of Alamar, in the Habana del Este district, was arrested during a police raid after being linked to a person's intoxication from the substance.
In a high-profile trial last December, the Provincial Court of Camagüey sentenced a prisoner to 19 years for introducing "el químico" into the prison where he was already serving time. Recently, a couple in Holguín was detained after authorities discovered they were transporting drugs and a substantial amount of cash.
The last few months have seen alarming footage of young Cubans under the influence of "el químico" go viral on social media. These videos often show individuals experiencing seizures, shouting, losing motor control, and engaging in dangerous behavior.
Drug Trafficking Issues in Havana
What substances are involved in the recent drug issues in Havana?
Recent drug issues in Havana primarily involve synthetic cannabinoids known as "el químico" and methamphetamines.
Which districts in Havana are most affected by drug trafficking?
The districts most affected by drug trafficking in Havana include Marianao, La Lisa, Arroyo Naranjo, and San Miguel del Padrón.
How have local residents reacted to recent police operations?
Residents have shown cautious optimism towards the police operations, noting an improved sense of safety in their neighborhoods.