A cattle farmer from Sancti Spíritus has openly challenged the Cuban government following the brutal slaughter of his livestock by thieves. Activist Lara Crofs shared a video on Facebook, showcasing the horrifying scene of animal carcasses strewn across the pasture—a truly grim sight.
Lara explained that the criminals killed several of the farmer's cattle, including two pregnant cows due to give birth in just ten days, along with three young bulls. "Despite his losses, the farmer was forced to account to the authorities for the theft. While he remains free, he is deeply distressed," the activist noted.
In the video, the outraged farmer addresses the leaders directly, demanding they rectify the situation. "Raul said cattle should be in the field and thieves in jail. What are we doing?" he questioned, highlighting the thieves' rampant impunity in the area.
As he walks through the field, the farmer points out each of his slaughtered animals. "Look here, the three father bulls I had, see them? This is why there's no cattle industry in Cuba, why agriculture is suffering, the farmer is down and out..." he emphasized.
According to Lara Crofs, this incident occurred around 15 to 20 days ago. The theft and slaughter of cattle in Cuba are on the rise, leaving owners desperate. The increase in these acts in rural areas keeps farmers awake at night, vigilantly guarding their livestock to avoid falling victim to the thieves themselves.
Farmers have resorted to keeping their animals closer to their homes for protection, yet even when tied near their windows, the livestock is stolen. They report minimal police intervention, stating that everyone in each region knows who the culprits are, where they transport the cattle, and the slaughter sites. However, catching them requires evidence.
In February 2023, a resident of Matanzas reported that thieves butchered his father's cows right in their backyard. Elier Jiménez, from the Máximo Gómez municipality, shared harrowing images of the slaughter: three cows dismembered, one of which was pregnant.
"How long will this system allow those trying to survive to fall prey to crime? Everyone knows who is doing this, yet the authorities remain inactive," Jiménez stated. "Where is a farmer supposed to keep his animals, under the bed? Even in their own yards, this happens. How will children get milk if there are no cows left standing?" he questioned.
Jiménez further mentioned that more than 24 hours after reporting the crime, authorities had yet to visit the scene.
FAQs About Cattle Theft and Government Response in Cuba
What did the farmer in Sancti Spíritus demand from the government?
He demanded that the government take action against livestock thieves and questioned the lack of enforcement against such crimes.
How are farmers in Cuba coping with increased livestock theft?
Farmers are trying to keep animals closer to their homes for protection, although thefts still occur even under these circumstances.
What is the state of police intervention in cattle theft cases in Cuba?
Farmers report that police intervention is almost nonexistent, and although the perpetrators are often known, evidence is required to apprehend them.