An individual employed as a custodian at the Prefabricated and Pre-Mixed Company in Jovellanos, Matanzas, has been put on trial for allegedly sabotaging the factory, an incident that occurred a year ago. The defendant, whose identity remains undisclosed, recently faced the State Security Offenses Court at the Provincial People's Tribunal in Havana.
According to reports from the Girón newspaper, the accused allegedly scaled the factory's perimeter wall and severed four cables connecting the control panel to the automated batching plant. This act halted the production of construction materials, which were scheduled for delivery to the Telecommunications Company (ETECSA) within days.
The sabotage resulted in financial losses exceeding 174,000 pesos. This figure accounts for both the costs associated with repairing the damaged technology and the loss of production, which in turn affected the wages of the factory workers.
The Matanzas Prosecutor's Office emphasized in their closing statements the significant impact such crimes have, not only on the Cuban economy but also on family finances. "It's crucial to note that this event occurred during a time when the country is striving to revitalize its economy amid resource shortages and is committed to developing small and medium-sized enterprises like this one in Jovellanos," the prosecutor highlighted.
Under the Cuban Penal Code, sabotage carries a penalty of seven to 15 years of imprisonment for anyone who knowingly disrupts or hampers normal operations by destroying, altering, damaging, or harming resources, infrastructures, or socio-economic or military units.
The trial has concluded, and the verdict is pending.
Key Questions About the Sabotage Case in Matanzas
What actions led to the custodian's trial in Matanzas?
The custodian allegedly climbed the factory's perimeter wall and cut four cables, disrupting operations at the automated batching plant.
What were the financial repercussions of the sabotage?
The sabotage caused financial losses exceeding 174,000 pesos, including repair costs and lost production, which affected workers' wages.
What is the potential penalty for sabotage under Cuban law?
Sabotage is punishable by seven to 15 years of imprisonment for disrupting or damaging socio-economic or military operations.