A recent law enforcement operation in Central Havana culminated in the arrest of a man suspected of drug trafficking. Authorities seized 20 crack rocks and additional narcotics, along with nearly 176,000 Cuban pesos, according to official reports.
The "significant find" and the arrest of the individual, identified only as Carlos, took place last week at the intersection of Estrella and Maloja streets in the Los Sitios neighborhood. This was part of the ongoing national crackdown on drugs, as reported by the pro-government Facebook page "Héroes de azul en Cuba," which was shared by Havana's government.
The report specified that Carlos was caught with "a glass jar filled with 20 crack rocks, a nylon bag containing more drugs, a bottle of bicarbonate, and nearly 176,000 pesos." Photos of the suspect, the seized drugs, and the money were shared by the profile, highlighting the operation's results. The post also emphasized that "these actions are meant to keep our streets clean and safe" and urged the public to continue "supporting the police in their efforts."
The Cuban regime has escalated its campaign against drug trafficking in the country as the issue has worsened amid the deepening economic and social crisis. Despite "el químico" being the most trafficked and consumed drug, marijuana, crack, and other narcotics are also present in Cuba.
In March, a police operation in the Cayo Hueso neighborhood of Central Havana led to the arrest of a Cienfuegos resident for alleged drug sales, including crack, a potent cocaine derivative. Drug trafficking and consumption have even affected minors and Cuban schools, as acknowledged by authorities in the Guantánamo province.
The government has declared a policy of "zero tolerance towards this scourge" and has consequently increased anti-drug raids across cities in all provinces, resulting in more arrests of those involved in drug trafficking and harsher penalties for offenders.
During the Second National Exercise for Crime Prevention and Control, Corruption, Illegalities, and Social Indiscipline in late March, "46 interventions were conducted in communities, bars, clubs, and rental houses" associated with drugs, according to Colonel Hugo Morales Karell, the deputy chief of the General Directorate of the PNR, on the official television program "Mesa Redonda."
In these operations, "46.9 kg of drugs were secured, along with plants, synthetic seeds, packages, small papers, and clippings soaked with substances," he stated. Additionally, electronic cigarettes and large sums of money were discovered.
Deputy Attorney General Alina Montesino Li disclosed that during the government campaign, provisional imprisonment was imposed in 86% of cases tried for serious crimes, with 97% linked to drug trafficking. Magistrate Ileana Gómez Guerra, president of the State Security Crimes Chamber of the Supreme People's Court, noted that 37 exemplary trials were held in eight provinces, mostly for charges such as narcotics trafficking, illegal possession of weapons, and embezzlement.
The 20 individuals sentenced for drug-related offenses received prison terms ranging from six to 15 years, she confirmed.
Frequently Asked Questions on Drug Trafficking in Cuba
What drugs are most commonly trafficked in Cuba?
The most trafficked and consumed drug in Cuba is "el químico." However, marijuana, crack, and other narcotics are also present.
How has the Cuban government responded to the drug trafficking issue?
The Cuban government has declared a zero-tolerance policy towards drug trafficking. It has increased anti-drug raids and imposed harsher penalties for those involved in drug-related offenses.