A 22-year-old man, identified as Dalian Segura Venegas and known by the nickname "El Oju," is in critical condition after suffering a severe electric shock early Saturday morning in the Versalles area of Santiago de Cuba.
Independent journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada shared details on Facebook, citing testimonies from several local residents.
According to various sources, the incident occurred when the young man allegedly tried to steal dielectric oil from a transformer located atop an electric pole. The power unexpectedly came back on, causing an electric shock that led to his fall from several meters high.
Dalian sustained third-degree burns across multiple parts of his body and was urgently transported to a specialized medical facility. Multiple accounts confirm that his condition remains critical, although Cuban authorities have yet to release an official statement regarding his health status.
The Incident's Chain Reaction and Community Impact
The young man was not alone during the incident. Sources indicate that his companion fled the scene after the shock, although other reports suggest that this individual was captured nearby.
Residents in the vicinity reported that Dalian lay on the ground for some time before receiving assistance. The electric shock also triggered a large-scale explosion and damage, resulting in power outages for several areas in Versalles. The Electric Company had not responded to repair the damages hours after the event.
Rising Trend of Dangerous Thefts
This event is part of a troubling trend of fatal incidents connected to the theft of dielectric oil in Santiago de Cuba. On May 9, 2026, a man was electrocuted while attempting to steal oil in El Cobre. On April 11, another man died, and a second suffered severe burns following a transformer explosion in Songo La Maya.
In September 2025, another individual lost his life under similar circumstances on the Carretera de Siboney. The theft of dielectric oil has become a nationwide crisis, driven by the severe energy shortage.
Legal Repercussions and National Crisis
This oil serves as an insulator and coolant in transformers. Its removal causes irreversible damage to equipment and can leave communities without power for extended periods. The Cuban regime categorizes these thefts as sabotage against the National Electric System under Supreme Court Ruling 475/2025, with penalties ranging from seven to 30 years in prison, life imprisonment, or even the death penalty in the most severe cases.
Mayeta Labrada emphasized that the information "is based on testimonies and continues to develop."
Understanding the Risks and Consequences of Dielectric Oil Theft
What is dielectric oil used for?
Dielectric oil is used as an insulator and coolant in transformers, crucial for their proper function and safety.
Why is the theft of dielectric oil a growing problem?
The theft of dielectric oil has surged due to the severe energy crisis in Cuba, causing significant damage to electrical infrastructure and prolonged outages.
What are the legal consequences of stealing dielectric oil in Cuba?
Under Supreme Court Ruling 475/2025, stealing dielectric oil is classified as sabotage, with penalties including lengthy prison sentences, life imprisonment, or even the death penalty in severe cases.