A robber wielding scissors to threaten a young woman and steal her phone was apprehended on Wednesday in the city of Bayamo, located in Granma province, according to sources linked to the Ministry of the Interior (Minint).
At approximately noon, both citizens and police officers managed to capture the suspect after he used scissors to intimidate the victim and snatch her mobile phone. This incident occurred near the José Joaquín Palma theater, situated at the intersection of General Lora and Carlos Manuel de Céspedes streets.
A notice on the social media account of Ransel Londres, which is associated with the Minint, stated that the thief will face charges of aggravated robbery in court. The post emphasized the importance of safeguarding property and urged the public to remain “alert” and provide a “revolutionary response” to criminal acts.
In a typically triumphant tone common in government rhetoric, the statement called for “vigilance, unity, and confrontation against social indiscipline and crime, alongside the authorities.” This call to action comes at a time when citizens are increasingly voicing concerns over the police's inadequate response to a rising wave of crime and unprecedented insecurity in the country.
Over recent years, the surge in crime and violence in Cuba has left the population on edge. Besides enduring a severe economic crisis, they are also falling prey to criminal activities.
In Havana, another phone thief who used scissors to threaten victims was arrested in the 10 de Octubre district. Recently, multiple robberies and assaults involving firearms have been reported across Cuba.
One particularly brazen armed robbery involved two individuals who threatened and tied up a delivery driver to steal his motorcycle in Marianao.
Crime and Public Safety in Cuba
What measures are being taken to combat crime in Bayamo?
Authorities in Bayamo are urging citizens to be vigilant and work with police to address social indiscipline and crime, as part of a broader call for unity and action against criminal activities.
How has crime affected the daily lives of Cubans?
The rise in crime and violence has added to the challenges faced by Cubans, who are already dealing with a severe economic crisis. This situation has heightened feelings of insecurity and vulnerability among the population.
Are there other incidents of theft involving weapons in Cuba?
Yes, there have been reports of other thefts and assaults in Cuba, involving both scissors and firearms, contributing to a growing sense of insecurity among citizens.