An expatriate Cuban woman revealed on Monday that her mother was mugged in the early hours on Boyeros Avenue, just outside Havana's José Martí International Airport. An organized group of criminals allegedly shot at her with pellet guns when they attempted to retrieve the stolen luggage.
Amanda Silverio shared the incident through a video on her TikTok account, cautioning her followers: "My mom was attacked leaving Havana airport on Boyeros, and I'm telling you this so you can be cautious and avoid it happening to you."
The account describes how Amanda's mother, arriving from Germany, was in a vehicle that had to halt on that road. At this moment, several individuals stationed nearby began to break into the trunk and steal her suitcase.
"They took advantage of the mandatory stop at Boyeros, inserting a stick into the trunk," Amanda explained. The theft became evident when the interior light illuminated as the compartment was opened, prompting the victim to scream.
The driver stopped the car, and with a companion, attempted to reclaim the luggage, but the assailants responded by firing pellet guns. "When they got out of the car to try to recover the suitcase, they started shooting with pellet guns. So, it's not just one person; there are several prepared to mug," Amanda pointed out.
Risks Around Havana Airport
Boyeros Avenue, a major route connecting the airport with the city center, has frequently been the site of such attacks since at least 2022. In June 2023, a driver fled an attempted mugging at the CUJAE traffic light on the same avenue, where criminals hid among the vegetation to climb onto trunks. In February 2024, incidents of stone-throwing from a bridge on Calle 100 to halt and rob vehicles were reported.
The described modus operandi — several coordinated individuals exploiting the mandatory stop under the cover of night — reflects a pattern exacerbated by Cuba's ongoing security crisis. According to the Cuban Conflict Observatory, 2,833 verified criminal incidents were recorded in 2025, a 115% increase from 2024 and a staggering 337% rise from 2023, with thefts as the predominant crime.
A Grim Outlook for Cuba
Amanda traveled to Cuba with her family to visit relatives in Santa Clara. Besides the mugging, she described a bleak scenario: widespread blackouts, families resorting to charcoal for cooking, exorbitant prices, and long queues for a mere 10 liters of gasoline. She also noted that at the airport, they were offered VIP lounge access for $25 per person and that better-conditioned rental cars required an additional $100 over the official rate.
Seniors are the most vulnerable group amid this crime wave. Documented data show that out of 700 recorded victims, 62 were elderly, and 20% of the National Revolutionary Police force has resigned, severely reducing police presence nationwide.
"Honestly, life in Cuba right now is a nightmare, between muggings, blackouts, people cooking with charcoal, insanely priced goods, and massive lines just to get ten liters of gasoline," Amanda concluded in her video.
Understanding the Crime Wave in Cuba
What measures can travelers take to avoid muggings near Havana Airport?
Travelers should remain vigilant, avoid stopping in high-risk areas, and consider hiring a trusted transportation service. Staying informed about recent incidents can also help in planning safe routes.
Why is Boyeros Avenue a hotspot for criminal activity?
Boyeros Avenue is a crucial link between the airport and the city, making it an ideal spot for criminals to target unsuspecting travelers, especially due to the mandatory stops and isolated stretches at night.
How has the security situation in Cuba changed over recent years?
Cuba's security situation has deteriorated significantly, with a marked increase in criminal incidents, particularly thefts, as reflected in the rising statistics reported by local observatories.