Ransay Puga, a young woman originally from Camagüey, Cuba, met a tragic end in a motorcycle accident in Paramaribo, the capital of Suriname. The accident, which occurred shortly after midnight, also claimed the life of a Surinamese citizen.
Following this tragedy, a heartfelt appeal for humanitarian assistance was made on Facebook by Marlen Cheilin Myers, a friend or relative of Ransay. She requested help to cover the expenses of transporting Ransay's remains back to Cuba.
"I sincerely ask from the bottom of my heart for humanitarian aid to transfer the body of Ransay Puga from Suriname to Cuba, as she has passed away in an accident. Anyone who can contribute, please help; her family is heartbroken," Marlen wrote.
She also bid farewell to the young woman with an emotional message: "I will always carry you in my mind and heart, my dear. Rest in peace, I will love you forever. I never imagined having to make such a post. What a pain, dear God."
Those who wish to assist with the repatriation efforts can contact the number +5978290596, which Marlen Cheilin Myers shared on social media.
The tragic incident involving Ransay Puga was initially reported by the civic platform "Nio Reportando un Crimen" and subsequently covered by outlets such as Cubita NOW and La Tijera.
Challenges of Returning to Cuba After Tragedy
Ransay's Facebook profile depicted a young woman who had established her life in Suriname's capital. Her case adds to the growing list of Cuban nationals who have tragically lost their lives in Suriname, leaving families to rely on community solidarity for repatriation—an often financially prohibitive process for many on the island.
Back in December 2024, two Cubans died in a traffic accident in Suriname, prompting similar fundraising efforts. The Cuban community successfully raised $30,000 to cover the costs of returning both individuals to their homeland.
Suriname: A Complex Destination for Cuban Migrants
In recent years, Suriname has become a popular destination for Cuban migrants, many of whom face precarious conditions. Despite the growing Cuban community in Paramaribo, migrants often encounter significant challenges, including legal and financial hurdles.
Since 2025, the Surinamese government has tightened entry requirements for Cubans, necessitating advance notice before travel, confirmed hotel reservations, proof of $1,000 in funds, and completion of a digital migration form.
These increased restrictions have not deterred migration but have heightened the risks for new arrivals. In June 2025, Surinamese authorities dismantled a human trafficking ring involving Cuban migrants, resulting in two arrests and revealing that women were being coerced into prostitution to repay trafficking debts of approximately $6,000.
The passing of Ransay Puga serves as a stark reminder that, for many Cuban families, the tragedy doesn't end with the loss of a loved one abroad; it begins a new struggle to bring them home.
Understanding Cuban Migration Challenges in Suriname
What led to the death of Ransay Puga in Suriname?
Ransay Puga tragically died in a motorcycle accident in Paramaribo, Suriname, which also resulted in the death of a local citizen.
How can people help with Ransay Puga's repatriation?
Individuals wishing to assist can contact the number +5978290596, as shared by Marlen Cheilin Myers on social media, to contribute to the repatriation efforts.
What challenges do Cuban migrants face in Suriname?
Cuban migrants in Suriname often face legal and financial challenges, including tightened entry requirements and increased vulnerability due to migration irregularities.