In Cuba, those known as "coleros," who sell spots in line for access to stores and services, have now expanded their enterprise to include ATMs, where citizens endure extended waits to withdraw cash.
On Friday, police apprehended one of these individuals on the bustling intersection of 23rd and J Street in El Vedado, Havana. The municipal administration in Plaza announced on Facebook, "Through the joint efforts of our enforcement commission and the PNR, and following public complaints, a 'colero' at the ATMs was identified and taken into custody at the Zapata Unit."
This announcement sparked varied reactions. Some were pleased and urged the government to also target CUPETS, while others pointed out that in the Ministry of the Interior's Identification and Procedures Office, also located in El Vedado, scalpers charge 1,000 pesos for a spot in line. Online commentators noted that police crackdowns address symptoms rather than root causes.
"Coleros are a symptom of a deeper issue. Yes, they're profiting, but the real problem is the scarcity, hunger, and lack of supplies—like cashless ATMs or empty stores. Addressing these underlying issues would eliminate the need for such characters and reduce arrests since people would be working instead of lining up, leading to a more dignified life," one man stated.
The cash shortage at ATMs has caused lengthy lines at Cuban banks for months. A December report by CiberCuba documented the frustration of users who spent hours waiting without assurance of withdrawing the necessary amount, particularly during critical times when people need money for year-end festivities.
"We'll end the year unable to spend our own money on necessary holiday purchases. Some of us have already been paid but can't access our full salaries," lamented a resident of Matanzas, another affected province.
President Díaz-Canel has blamed the private sector for the cash shortage, claiming that private businesses are responsible for draining funds from Cuban banks. According to him, state entities are not at fault, and instead, private activities are exacerbating the issue.
Understanding Cuba's ATM Crisis and Scalping
What are "coleros" in Cuba?
"Coleros" are individuals in Cuba who make a business out of selling spots in line for access to stores, services, and now ATMs, capitalizing on the long wait times due to shortages.
Why is there a cash shortage at Cuban ATMs?
The cash shortage at Cuban ATMs is attributed to economic struggles, inefficient supply chains, and, according to President Díaz-Canel, the impact of private sector activities leading to a drain on bank resources.
How has the government responded to the scalping issue?
The government has started cracking down on "coleros" through police actions, but critics argue that these measures only address the symptoms of deeper economic problems.