A shocking corruption scandal has surfaced in Cuba following the arrest of several cemetery workers in Camagüey, accused of illegally selling burial plots.
The pro-government source, Truths Through Mobile, announced on Facebook this Monday that numerous employees at the provincial cemetery in Camagüey were apprehended for allegedly participating in the sale of vaults and burial spaces for monetary gain.
According to the release, these arrests were conducted by the Cuban police and the Ministry of the Interior, accusing the individuals of reaping “illegitimate economic benefits” through actions that, according to official reports, “tarnish the dignity of funeral services.”
The official media outlet indicated that those involved will face legal proceedings, where — it claims — procedural guarantees and constitutional rights will be upheld.
However, no further details were provided about the identities of those detained or the extent of the alleged corruption scheme.
Independent journalist Yaima Pardo reported on her Facebook profile that local residents have complained about "under-the-table" pricing for funeral services due to the collapse of the state system and lack of resources.
According to collected testimonies, the cost of cremation can soar to an unaffordable 30,000 Cuban pesos for many families.
Regime authorities state that investigations are ongoing to determine the full scope of the events and whether more individuals are involved.
From Camagüey, the official narrative of "combatting irregularities and protecting citizens' rights" is echoed, although incidents of corruption within state entities have become increasingly common on the island.
This cemetery corruption case adds to recent criticism over the deplorable state of the site, sparking a wave of public outrage.
The communal services attempted to justify the cemetery's condition by citing a shortage of materials and resources, without taking clear responsibility for the evident neglect of vaults, pathways, and funeral structures.
The controversy is not new. Images circulated days ago showed human remains exposed among weeds and trash, while mourners publicly denounced the disrespect and decay in a necropolis meant to offer solace and peace.
"Even in death, there's no rest in this country," wrote a citizen, sharing images of bones and shattered headstones.
In August, reports of stolen tombstones, crucifixes, and even entire structures heightened concerns among families worried about the safety of their loved ones' remains.
Locals pointed to the lack of security and institutional neglect as factors enabling these acts of vandalism to continue without apparent consequences.
Understanding the Cemetery Corruption Scandal in Camagüey
What triggered the arrests of cemetery workers in Camagüey?
The arrests were initiated due to alleged illegal sales of burial plots by cemetery workers, leading to accusations of corruption and economic misconduct.
What is the public's reaction to the scandal?
The public has expressed outrage over the scandal, with many residents reporting overpricing in funeral services and criticizing the deteriorating conditions of the cemetery.
How have the authorities responded to the situation?
Authorities claim to be conducting thorough investigations to fully understand the extent of the corruption and to uncover any additional parties involved.