A court in Palma de Mallorca, Spain, has sentenced a 48-year-old Cuban man for a minor offense involving "unjust sexual harassment" after he engaged in two separate incidents of harassment on a bus operated by the Municipal Transport Company (EMT). As part of the verdict, he received a 30-day house arrest sentence and is banned from approaching that specific bus line for six months, according to local media reports.
Recurrent Harassment on Public Transit
The incident dates back to December 5, 2024. On that day, two women reported to the local police that a man had repeatedly touched them with his genitals during a ride on EMT line 5, which links Rafal Nou to Plaza Progreso, passing through various busy areas of the Balearic capital. The separate but consistent complaints alerted municipal authorities.
Both victims described similar episodes where the man, presumably on purpose, repeatedly approached them and made contact with his genital area, a behavior facilitated by the usual crowding on public transport. These actions, deemed sexual harassment, were crucial in prompting an investigation by the Police's Investigation and Complaint Monitoring Group (GISD).
The Role of Security Footage
After receiving the complaints, GISD officers began collecting evidence by reviewing footage from the security cameras installed on line 5 buses. This video evidence was essential in corroborating the victims' statements and identifying the suspect's behavior patterns. Additionally, a list of passengers traveling that day was checked to narrow down the suspect pool.
The local police conducted specific surveillance on buses operating on line 5, eventually leading to the identification and arrest of the perpetrator.
The Verdict
On March 27, the court handed down a conviction for the Cuban man, finding him guilty of minor unjust harassment with a sexual component. The punishment included 30 days of house arrest, requiring the offender to remain in a designated location under supervision as an alternative to jail time.
Moreover, he was banned from coming near buses on line 5 for six months, a measure aimed at safeguarding the victims and preventing further criminal behavior. The offender is also responsible for covering the legal costs of the trial.
The Palma de Mallorca Local Police highlighted this case to emphasize the importance of victims reporting any form of harassment or sexual violence promptly. According to the police statement, public cooperation was crucial in allowing the investigation to proceed effectively, ultimately resulting in a conviction.
“Bus security cameras are a vital tool for identifying and prosecuting uncivil and criminal acts,” police sources stated. Thanks to this technology, combined with the courageous testimony of the victims, the incidents and the perpetrator were clearly identified.
Rising Concerns Over Urban Transport Incidents
This episode adds to growing concerns about the rise of uncivil and criminal behaviors on Palma's public transport. City officials and transport system operators have reiterated their commitment to passenger safety, stepping up security and awareness measures.
The EMT in Palma has long implemented a camera system in its vehicles, serving not only as a traffic and service management tool but also as a public safety resource.
Key Questions About Public Transit Safety in Palma
What actions led to the Cuban man's ban from the bus?
The Cuban man was banned from the bus for repeatedly harassing two women by touching them with his genitals during a ride on the EMT's line 5.
How was the offender identified?
The offender was identified through security camera footage and passenger lists, which helped the police narrow down suspects and conduct specific surveillance.
What measures has the EMT implemented for safety?
The EMT has installed a comprehensive camera system in its vehicles to monitor and manage traffic and enhance public safety.