This Tuesday, Cuban authorities arrested the primary suspect in the murder of 75-year-old Esperanza Cabrera Melvin, a beloved Cuban teacher who had been missing since December 2024 in Matanzas province. According to a local source, Omar Sánchez, the alleged perpetrator is Yoandy Castro from the town of Laberinto. Castro was taken into custody after he reportedly threatened another individual while intoxicated, claiming, "You're asking for a beating like I gave Esperanza."
The Facebook group "Desaparecidos dentro de Cuba. Somos tu voz" announced that they would close the search announcement for Esperanza, describing her as an "exceptional person, a devoted teacher loved and respected by everyone who knew her." As of now, the suspect has not confessed to the crime, and Esperanza's remains have not been located.
Esperanza, affectionately known as Espe, has left a deep impact on the community of Colón, where she lived. Her tragic death has sparked renewed discussions on violence and the justice system in Cuba. A community member expressed, “Esperanza, or Espe as we fondly called you, justice will finally be served. Rest in peace. You didn’t deserve this end. You were a teacher to many generations, a mother to many of us, and a good neighbor. May God grant you the most beautiful resting place in heaven.”
Others criticized the perceived impunity in the Cuban penal system and the lack of justice in murder cases. “What a cowardly act. What could this poor woman have done? If he killed her, he should be punished, but in Cuba, killers act tough on the streets and turn into lambs in prison, only to be released and kill again. It's disgusting,” lamented another commentator.
One person highlighted the broader societal issues plaguing the island, suggesting they contribute to such violent acts. “I can’t fathom how people harbor such evil in their hearts with all the problems we face like food shortages, power outages, and lack of money. Instead of focusing on what truly matters for living peacefully and harmoniously, they resort to violence.”
Esperanza was last seen on December 19, 2024, at 6:30 AM at the Central René Fraga bus stop in Colón. She was heading to Maceo, just a kilometer away, but never arrived. Her disappearance prompted her family to report it to the police and led to a community-driven search effort.
In recent years, Matanzas has witnessed a surge in violent crimes, alarming Cuban society. The escalation of high-profile crimes has exposed the citizens' vulnerability to crime and the authorities' inability to curb the violence. A particularly shocking incident occurred in May 2023 when Víctor Luis Hozman Reyes murdered a couple and their seven-year-old son during a robbery at their farm in Matanzas. The community was shaken by the crime, and the Supreme People's Court of Cuba recently upheld the life sentence handed down by the Matanzas Provincial Court.
Last month, three young men were arrested in Cárdenas after violently assaulting a 15-year-old in Martí Park, robbing him of his mobile phone, watch, and shoes, highlighting the impunity with which criminal gangs operate in the area. Two of the arrested had prior criminal records.
Another tragic incident occurred in February 2025 in Colón, where a young mother was brutally murdered at home in the presence of her young daughter. Days later, the body of the perpetrator was also found dead. This crime reignited the debate on gender-based violence in Cuba and the lack of protection for victims.
Understanding the Rise of Crime in Matanzas
What led to the arrest of the suspect in Esperanza Cabrera's case?
The suspect, Yoandy Castro, was arrested after making incriminating statements while intoxicated, threatening another person and referencing his attack on Esperanza.
How has the community reacted to Esperanza's murder?
The community of Colón is deeply affected by Esperanza's murder, sparking conversations about violence and justice in Cuba. Many have expressed outrage at the perceived impunity in the legal system.
What other violent incidents have occurred in Matanzas recently?
Other notable incidents include a triple murder in May 2023 and a violent robbery in Cárdenas. These events have contributed to the perception of rising crime in the region.