In the early hours of Sunday morning, thieves targeted a water distribution site adjacent to the 18-story buildings in Holguín, making off with four solar panels from the photovoltaic system powering the water pumps essential for thousands of residents.
The incident was brought to light by the Facebook page "Holguín en fotos," where a video post quickly garnered over 38,000 views and drew more than 300 comments from outraged citizens.
The page's administrator reported that law enforcement was on-site gathering evidence at the time the theft was publicized.
This is not an isolated incident, as similar thefts have been reported at other solar-powered water points in the city, indicating a growing trend in criminal activity.
"Given the current market conditions, these components are extremely valuable, with each panel fetching nearly $300," the reporter noted, highlighting the lucrative nature of the black market for these items in Cuba.
The public's reaction in the video comments was one of mounting frustration. "Nothing will change until there are severe penalties and exemplary trials," one user commented.
Another added, "If strict measures are enforced and the police focus on their duties, we might see some progress, but until then, crime will only increase."
Some residents mentioned that this site had been targeted before, indicating repeated offenses at the same location. "Aren't there any guards on duty? For heaven's sake," another commenter questioned, encapsulating the community's anger over the lack of security for such a crucial service.
Holguín en fotos replied to one of the comments with a strong stance. "If this site can no longer provide its service and thousands lose access to drinking water, I agree it should be labeled as terrorism," they stated.
The theft exacerbates an already dire water crisis. More than 370,000 people in Holguín, nearly 40% of the provincial population, lack a regular potable water supply, in a region where power outages can last over 50 consecutive hours.
Solar systems at pumping stations are the state's solution to ensure water supply during blackouts, making them prime targets for theft.
This event adds to a persistent wave of robberies. On May 13, four individuals assaulted and restrained a security guard at the Oscar Lucero pumping station in the same city, stealing 32 solar panels.
On June 28, the theft of four panels in Sagua de Tánamo disrupted television signals for four communities in the Plan Turquino area. Between May and June, at least three thefts of Etecsa infrastructure panels were reported in Santiago de Cuba.
Despite Supreme People's Court Ruling 475, which since May 2025 classifies these acts as sabotage, punishable by life imprisonment or death, robberies persist unabated, especially at sites lacking continuous security.
The Rising Wave of Solar Panel Thefts in Cuba
Why are solar panels being targeted in Holguín?
Solar panels are being targeted due to their high market value, with each panel worth nearly $300, making them attractive items for the black market in Cuba.
What impact does the theft of solar panels have on the community?
The theft of solar panels disrupts the water supply for thousands, worsening an already critical situation for residents in Holguín who face frequent water shortages and power outages.
What measures are being taken to prevent further thefts?
Currently, there are calls for stricter penalties and better security measures, but with ongoing thefts, it appears increased vigilance and enforcement are needed to protect these critical infrastructures.