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Violence Escalates in Cuba: Group of Youths Assaults Home with Machetes, Bottles, and Gunfire

Saturday, February 15, 2025 by Claire Jimenez

A video circulating on social media captures a disturbing scene where a group of young individuals arrives at the vicinity of a home, with three of them threatening someone inside with severe aggression. Eliécer Ávila shared the footage on Instagram, exclaiming, "Look at what Cuba is becoming."

The footage, slightly over a minute long, shows a young man striking the property's gate with a pair of machetes while two others hurl bottles into the yard. Towards the video's end, one individual pulls what appears to be a gun from a backpack.

The timing and location of the video, which has rapidly gained attention online, remain unclear, although Eliécer tagged Holguín in his post. The reason behind the conflict is also unknown, but the main aggressor mentioned the Abakuás, hinting at a possible dispute within this religious community.

This incident has sparked widespread concern and criticism across social media platforms. Many comments highlight that such altercations are symptomatic of Cuba's social crisis, where violence among citizens has become commonplace, while the root issues plaguing the country remain unaddressed.

Users frequently pointed out the lack of courage to confront the government, with their aggression instead directed at fellow citizens. One comment read, "They act tough among themselves, but with the dictatorship, they are submissive." Another user sarcastically remarked, "Let's see them show their bravery in Punto Cero, otherwise, what's the point?"

Another commenter added, "Machetes and guns for fighting among themselves. Why not take it to the Capitol?" For many, the scene represents a mindset fostered by the Cuban regime: "The government takes everything from them daily, yet none go with machetes to demand their rights. But against each other, they do."

The video also led to ridicule regarding the supposed bravery of the attackers, who acted as a group. Comments like "Anyone's brave in a gang"; "Why didn't they go in? They're only tough with the gate"; "Hire them for the war in Ukraine, they'd win it immediately"; and "Jump the fence and stop pretending, brave until a cockroach flies" mocked the aggressors.

Beyond condemning the attackers, many criticized the police for their lack of response to such violent incidents. A user noted, "If someone were shouting 'Patria y Vida,' they'd be arrested by now." Another added, "Misery has severe consequences."

Understanding the Rise of Violence in Cuba

What does the video of the attack in Cuba depict?

The video shows a group of young individuals attacking a home with machetes, bottles, and what appears to be a firearm, threatening someone inside.

What is the suggested reason behind the attack?

While the exact reason is unknown, the main aggressor mentioned the Abakuás, implying it might be a conflict within that religious group.

How have social media users reacted to the incident?

The incident has drawn criticism and concern, with many highlighting Cuba's social crisis and the misplaced aggression among citizens instead of confronting the government.

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