The National Shrine of Our Lady of Charity, Cuba's most revered Catholic site, was left without electricity on Wednesday following the theft of dielectric oil from the transformer that supplies power to both the shrine and its guesthouse.
This incident was publicly reported in an official statement from the Archdiocese of Santiago de Cuba, signed by Father Rogelio Deán. He recounted the episode that occurred between Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, noting that "unscrupulous individuals stole the oil from the transformer, cutting off electricity to the Shrine of El Cobre and its guesthouse, depriving the sacred home of the Mother of all Cubans of this essential service."
The theft occurred in the guesthouse parking area, prompting police to launch an immediate investigation. The provincial government authorities have also been informed of the situation.
Response and Security Measures
Despite the power outage, the shrine remains open to pilgrims and visitors. Father Deán mentioned that the shrine's security team has implemented additional internal protection measures. Meanwhile, the electric company is working diligently to restore power.
Father Deán's statement was firm in its condemnation: "We vehemently reject such criminal acts and hope for the identification of those responsible. Actions like these must not be tolerated."
Impact and Broader Context
This recent incident adds to the challenges faced by the shrine, which is already recovering from the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa. The hurricane, which struck eastern Cuba on October 29, 2025, destroyed over 80% of the shrine's stained glass windows. It wasn't until March 2026 that the lighting of the staircase was restored, with the upper stained glass windows replaced by Easter.
The theft of dielectric oil has become a widespread issue, exacerbating Cuba's already dire electrical situation. This oil is crucial for transformer operation, and its removal renders the equipment permanently unusable.
Nationwide Crisis and Legal Repercussions
The town of El Cobre has previously suffered from this crime: a man was electrocuted while attempting to steal oil from a bank of transformers in May 2026, leading to one arrest and charges of sabotage. The phenomenon has affected nearly every province in the country.
In April 2026, the theft of 600 liters of dielectric oil left 40% of the municipality of Amancio in Las Tunas without power. In Matanzas, approximately 40 individuals were prosecuted for this crime in the first quarter of 2026 alone.
In response to the growing crisis, the People's Supreme Court issued Ruling 475 in May 2025, categorizing the theft of dielectric oil as sabotage. This crime now carries severe penalties, ranging from 7 to 30 years in prison, life imprisonment, or even the death penalty in extreme cases.
Despite these harsh sentences, such as the 8-year term for the theft of 60 liters in Isla de la Juventud, the thefts continue, reaching even the spiritual heart of Cuba.
Understanding the Dielectric Oil Theft Crisis in Cuba
Why is dielectric oil theft a problem in Cuba?
Dielectric oil theft disrupts the functioning of transformers, leading to significant electricity shortages. This issue exacerbates the already critical power situation in Cuba, affecting numerous communities and essential services.
What legal actions has Cuba taken against dielectric oil theft?
In May 2025, Cuba's People's Supreme Court declared dielectric oil theft as sabotage under Ruling 475, imposing severe penalties, including long prison sentences, life imprisonment, or the death penalty for severe cases.
Has the theft of dielectric oil affected other regions in Cuba?
Yes, almost all provinces have been impacted. Notable incidents include significant power outages in Amancio, Las Tunas, and numerous prosecutions in Matanzas, indicating the widespread nature of the problem.