Thieves have stolen dielectric oil from two sets of transformers in the Carolina area, located in the San Luis municipality of Santiago de Cuba. This theft further undermines an already fragile electrical infrastructure plagued by breakdowns and frequent blackouts.
The Santiago de Cuba Electric Company announced on Facebook that the theft was discovered on Friday during a routine inspection carried out in collaboration with the MININT Operational Guard.
"These acts are criminal offenses that negatively impact residents in neighborhoods and communities reliant on these transformers, jeopardizing the stability of the electrical system," the company warned. No details were provided regarding any suspects or arrests.
This incident comes just two days after another theft of approximately 300 liters of oil from the Paquito Rosales Substation, also in San Luis, which resulted in a power outage affecting around 17,000 people in various localities.
Widespread Issue Across Regions
The problem is spreading to other regions. On Saturday, another instance of dielectric oil theft was reported in Cárdenas, Matanzas—marking the second occurrence in just eight days on circuit 4427. In Matanzas alone, over 90 transformers have been impacted by similar incidents.
Dielectric oil is crucial for insulating and cooling transformers. Its removal can cause significant damage and render the equipment unusable, leading to even longer power outages.
The Paradox of Power Outages
In the comments on the post, many Cubans pointed out a paradox: the power outages themselves might be facilitating these thefts by leaving the equipment without tension for extended periods.
"I doubt anyone without the necessary knowledge would dare to attempt this, because if the power suddenly returned, they'd be in serious trouble," commented one user.
Another remarked sarcastically, "Once the transformers have power 24/7, they won't be able to steal the oil, solving two problems at once."
Fatal Consequences and Legal Repercussions
This dangerous practice has already resulted in fatalities. In April, an explosion during a theft attempt in Songo La Maya resulted in one death and injury to another person, while in May, an individual was electrocuted in El Cobre under similar circumstances.
Cuban authorities have the option to prosecute these acts as sabotage, which carries severe prison sentences. Nevertheless, the thefts continue to proliferate amid the country's severe energy crisis, creating a vicious cycle: blackouts make it easier to loot transformers, and damage to these devices can leave residents without electricity for even longer periods.
Understanding the Impact of Oil Theft on Cuba's Electrical Infrastructure
How does oil theft affect Cuba's electrical infrastructure?
Stealing dielectric oil from transformers can cause severe damage, rendering them inoperative and leading to prolonged power outages, which exacerbate the country's existing energy crisis.
Why are power outages linked to increased oil theft?
Power outages provide opportunities for theft by de-energizing equipment, making it safer for thieves to extract oil without the risk of electrocution, hence increasing the likelihood of such criminal activities.
What legal actions can be taken against oil theft in Cuba?
Cuban law allows for oil theft to be prosecuted as sabotage, which is a serious offense that can result in harsh prison sentences for those convicted.