The Cuban government has declared an all-out war against drug trafficking, launching a fresh wave of police operations to support its zero-tolerance stance on drugs. Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz emphasized the nation's commitment to eradicating this global scourge, which threatens national security. He stated, "Faced with new methods and techniques for drug introduction into the country, it is crucial to address this issue comprehensively and act decisively."
Echoing this sentiment, Marrero quoted Raúl Castro Ruz, asserting that the fight will be "by any means necessary" against anyone attempting to bring drugs into the island. "We will continue battling this menace just as Raúl Castro expressed: 'by any means necessary' against anyone who tries to contaminate our streets, our children, grandchildren, adolescents, and youth," he declared.
Surge in Drug Raids and Arrests in Havana
Marrero's declarations coincide with a series of anti-drug operations resulting in numerous arrests across various Havana neighborhoods this week. These operations, documented in images shared by official social media profiles, have been conducted in areas like Marianao, Guanabacoa, Habana del Este, Habana Vieja, Arroyo Naranjo, Cerro, and Boyeros.
One notable case in Boyeros involved the Chief of Sector from the Wajay neighborhood intercepting a trafficker during a transaction, seizing 128 doses of synthetic cannabinoid known as "the chemical." In Arroyo Naranjo's La Güinera neighborhood, Marnoldis Utria and Luis Echarte Cruz were arrested. Marnoldis was caught with two cigarettes containing the substance, while a digital scale, three metal scissors, and a tray with material ready for sale were discovered at Luis Echarte's residence.
Another raid in the Martí neighborhood of Cerro led to the confiscation of a significant amount of "the chemical," marijuana, and money in both national and U.S. currency. The detained trafficker, known as "Yosvanis," is notorious for his criminal activities in the area. Police also intervened in the La Favela neighborhood at Callejón El Sapo in Guanabacoa, arresting brothers Pablo Alexis and Ernesto, who were found with drugs, fragments, and papers used for substance distribution.
Establishment of the National Drug Observatory
Alongside the intensification of operations, the Cuban government announced the creation of the National Drug Observatory (OND), overseen by the Ministry of Justice (Minjus). This institution will monitor and study the drug phenomenon in Cuba. It will feature an Early Warning System to identify new psychoactive substances and mitigate associated risks.
Alexis Batista Segrera, director of International Relations at Minjus, stated that the OND will provide essential information for national policy formulation and coordinate efforts with institutions such as the Ministry of the Interior (MININT), the Attorney General's Office, and the Ministries of Education, Higher Education, and Public Health. The observatory is part of a cooperation program with the European Union through Copolad III and is set to become operational by July 2025 following workshops with regional experts.
Rising Anti-Drug Operations and Social Concern
The increase in anti-drug operations on the island reflects growing concerns over the consumption of substances like "the chemical" and methamphetamines. According to Colonel Juan Carlos Poey, head of the MININT's anti-drug task force, municipalities such as Marianao, La Lisa, Arroyo Naranjo, and San Miguel del Padrón are major hubs for drug trafficking and consumption in Havana.
"These areas concentrate the trafficking bases. There is a culture of consumption. They host the main drug traffickers and consumers," Poey explained on the television program "Hacemos Cuba." The introduction of methamphetamines and other more potent substances indicates an escalation in the problem's severity. The use of "the chemical" has already led to alarming scenes on social media, showing young people under its influence experiencing convulsions, screaming, and loss of motor control.
The government has urged the public to cooperate with authorities by reporting any suspicious activities related to drug trafficking or consumption. Judicial authorities have highlighted the importance of solid evidence to secure effective convictions.
Key Questions on Cuba's Drug War
What measures is Cuba taking to combat drug trafficking?
Cuba has launched a series of police operations across Havana to combat drug trafficking, along with establishing the National Drug Observatory to monitor and formulate policies.
Who is leading Cuba's anti-drug efforts?
Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz is spearheading the efforts, supported by the Ministry of the Interior and other government institutions.
What areas in Havana are most affected by drug trafficking?
Municipalities such as Marianao, La Lisa, Arroyo Naranjo, and San Miguel del Padrón are identified as key hubs for drug trafficking and consumption.