Theft Strikes Cuban Writer Rafael Almanza's Home in Camagüey

The residence of Cuban writer, poet, and literary critic Rafael Almanza, famously known as Ítaca, was recently burglarized, as reported by those close to the intellectual. This incident has sparked outrage within Cuba's cultural circles. The organization Memoria Cívica expressed its solidarity with Almanza through a Facebook post, describing the event as a blow not only against the writer but also against a bastion of resistance and creativity in Cuba.

"Ítaca, the house that stands firm, has been burglarized. We stand in solidarity with writer Rafael Almanza during this difficult time," the organization posted. Mario Ramírez, director of Memoria Cívica, also spoke out about the incident: "Every day I hear about a different robbery in the city of Camagüey, but I wasn't prepared for it to hit so close to home. The broken door in the image is from the house of our beloved Rafael Almanza, a writer and teacher who endures in Cuba, facing not only the misery of the regime but also the harshness of a people that sometimes seems, frankly, worse."

"The countless artists, writers, and creators who have passed through this home of ours can understand my indignation. A city darkened in a darkened country, with defenseless elders and an abusive populace that prefers knives, theft, and, of course, the revolution," he concluded.

Almanza's home has long been a gathering place for Cuban artists, writers, and intellectuals, heightening the impact of the burglary. Memoria Cívica emphasized the importance of continuing to support the writer's work, noting his contributions across various platforms, from his books with Ediciones Memoria to his Ítaca project and his podcast, Palabra del Tiempo.

As of now, there have been no updates on the investigation into the robbery, nor have there been any official statements from the authorities. However, the incident has highlighted the vulnerability of independent intellectuals and creators on the island, who face not only political pressures but also the challenges of a rapidly deteriorating social context.

Other Incidents in Camagüey

One of the most alarming incidents occurred in early February 2025, when 83-year-old Martha Cossío was brutally attacked during a blackout near Plaza Bedoya. The victim sustained a violent beating that caused bleeding in her right eye as her cell phone and cash were stolen. Despite the severity of the attack, authorities have not reported any arrests.

Additionally, in December 2024, there were multiple reports of desecration and theft at Camagüey's main cemetery. Families of the deceased reported the violation of crypts and the theft of human remains, including skulls. These actions have sparked outrage in the community, which criticizes the lack of control and oversight by cemetery authorities.

The Camagüey community has voiced its concern over the authorities' ineffectiveness in curbing this crime wave, exacerbated by factors such as prolonged blackouts and the economic crisis gripping the country. The absence of concrete responses from law enforcement has heightened the sense of insecurity among city residents.