Theft of solar panels and cables is severely impacting facilities linked to water supply, telecommunications, and electricity generation in Amancio, a municipality in Las Tunas. This surge in criminal activities targeting crucial infrastructure has sparked growing concern.
The state-run Periódico 26 reported on Tuesday a series of incidents affecting public installations in the municipality, including the theft of solar panels from pumping stations where energy conversion efforts were underway.
The absence of these panels threatens the operational capacity of the stations, which could hinder water access for entire communities. This comes at a time when solar energy is being tapped as a crucial alternative amid the country's ongoing power outages.
Additionally, the report highlights thefts of cables belonging to ETECSA, which could leave neighborhoods isolated and disrupt phone and telecommunications services.
Another affected site was the Punta Brava photovoltaic solar park, where cables were also stolen. This installation is integral to the region's power generation infrastructure, and each stolen component necessitates the allocation of new resources for replacement.
In light of these recurring incidents, the official outlet has called for enhanced security measures at pumping stations, ETECSA facilities, and the solar park. Recommendations include reviewing security systems, bolstering lighting, controlling access, and improving alert mechanisms.
The official newspaper acknowledges that such thefts continue unchecked, as evidenced by ongoing incidents.
In May, the province had already reported at least 11 thefts of dielectric oil and transformer components, leading to prolonged power service interruptions and compelling authorities to strengthen perimeter fencing, install solar lighting, and heighten surveillance at substations.
Amancio was particularly hard-hit in April, experiencing one of the most severe cases. The theft of 600 liters of dielectric oil from two transformers cut off electricity for 40% of the municipality, affecting 4,947 customers.
The impacted facilities included a polyclinic, the Telecommunications Center, and the Alipio Carrillo water pumping station.
Attacks on telecommunications infrastructure are not a new issue in the province. In 2024, ETECSA reported 19 acts of vandalism in Las Tunas, including cable thefts that disrupted 35 phone lines and six public telephones.
In some instances, thieves even dismantled perimeter fences surrounding the facilities.
Understanding the Impact of Theft on Essential Services in Las Tunas
How are solar panel thefts affecting water supply in Las Tunas?
The theft of solar panels from water pumping stations threatens their operational efficiency, potentially limiting water access for entire communities reliant on these facilities.
What measures are being suggested to combat infrastructure thefts?
The official media outlet has recommended enhancing security at critical facilities, including improving security systems, lighting, access control, and alert mechanisms to deter future thefts.
What has been the impact of cable thefts on telecommunications services?
Cable thefts have resulted in neighborhoods being cut off from telecommunications services, with significant disruptions to phone lines and public telephones.