A man has been apprehended in Holguín province for carrying 85 cigarettes containing banned chemical substances. The arrest of Osmany González Medel took place in Pueblo Nuevo during the evening, as patrol officers stopped the individual walking in public, according to details shared on the Cazador-Cazado Facebook page, linked to the Ministry of the Interior in Holguín.
The profile emphasized that combating illicit substance trafficking is a top priority for authorities due to the detrimental impact these activities have on the peace and well-being of young people and families in the area. "There's a lot at stake," it highlighted, stressing the growing concern among citizens over the rise of such behaviors.
The Menace of "El Químico"
"El Químico" is a synthetic drug that has gained infamy in Cuba because of its harmful effects and increasing use among the youth. It is a synthetic cannabinoid designed to mimic the effects of marijuana but is significantly more potent and poses greater risks. The base of "el químico" is cannabis, to which various hazardous substances are added.
According to user accounts, this drug is made by mixing the herb with epilepsy pills, formaldehyde, and animal anesthesia. The resulting blend is dried and smoked in cigarettes similar to marijuana.
Immediate and Long-term Dangers
The effects of "el químico" are immediate and severe. In the short term, it can induce euphoria, perceptual distortions, nausea, rapid heartbeat, seizures, and loss of muscle control. Long-term use can result in disorders such as anxiety, psychosis, hallucinations, as well as kidney, liver, and heart failure. The clandestine nature of its production leads to variability in component concentration, heightening the risk of overdoses and poisoning.
Authorities' Efforts and Legal Consequences
The low cost and swift action of "el químico" have made it popular among Cuban youth, raising alarm among society and officials. Numerous incidents involving individuals under its influence have been reported, showcasing erratic behavior, some of which have been captured in videos circulating on social media. In response, authorities have ramped up operations against the trafficking of this substance.
In September 2024, for instance, 22 individuals were arrested in Havana for selling "el químico" in paper form. Under Cuban law, penalties for trafficking this drug can be as severe as 30 years in prison, life imprisonment, or even the death penalty.
Personal Accounts and Recent Incidents
The accounts of young people affected by "el químico" are alarming. Many describe rapid addiction and a significant loss of control over their lives. One young person in rehabilitation shared, "I started because of peer pressure, but soon I began using it alone. I was hooked for days. I lost many things… I lost my family."
Additionally, there have been tragic incidents, such as the death of a young man in Havana who fell from a rooftop while under the influence of "el químico".
Understanding "El Químico" and Its Impact
What is "El Químico" and why is it dangerous?
"El Químico" is a synthetic cannabinoid designed to mimic marijuana but with much greater potency and risk. It contains harmful additives like epilepsy pills and animal anesthesia, posing significant health hazards.
How are authorities responding to the spread of "El Químico" in Cuba?
Cuban authorities have intensified their efforts against the trafficking of "El Químico," with numerous arrests and strict penalties, including long prison sentences and potentially the death penalty, for those involved.