A gripping video uploaded on Facebook by user Irma Broek has once again spotlighted the escalating crisis of synthetic drugs in Cuba. The footage depicts a young man sprawled on a street, his body writhing uncontrollably as he utters bizarre guttural sounds. His face, partially smeared with blood, starkly contrasts with his otherwise clean and casual attire—shorts, a T-shirt, sneakers—and a small backpack resting on his back. Surrounding him is the silence of bystanders and local residents: some simply watch, while others pass by without intervening.
"That paper has everyone going crazy. Look at this, what an abuse, man!" exclaims the person recording the video, referring to the havoc wreaked by the drug commonly known as "the chemical." "This is truly destroying people. Look, his face is smeared with blood. You can't touch him, he's kicking and punching," he added.
This newly captured footage is not an isolated incident. Back in February, another video emerged from Egido Street in Old Havana, showcasing a young man lying motionless under the influence of the same narcotic. At that time, the video creator described the addiction as "an epidemic" and urged the government to recognize the crisis and take action.
The Nature of "The Chemical" and Its Devastating Impact
Cuban medical experts classify "the chemical" as part of the synthetic cannabinoid group, substances engineered to mimic marijuana but with far greater strength and toxicity. The reactions they trigger can range from seizures and extreme hallucinations to irreversible neurological damage. Reports indicate the inclusion of compounds like formaldehyde—used in mortuary settings—hospital anesthetics, and even tea or other plant remnants, aiming to cut costs while boosting effects.
The social alarm and governmental inaction have led to various theories regarding the origin and rapid spread of this drug. Some speculate that the state might be introducing "the chemical" as a social distraction tactic to divert attention from widespread poverty.
Government Response and Criticism
Amidst the growing visibility of this issue, authorities have responded by focusing on repression, launching extensive anti-drug police operations resulting in numerous arrests in Havana and other provinces. In February, the Ministry of Justice announced the establishment of the National Drug Observatory (OND), with an early warning system to identify new substances and monitor consumption and trafficking trends, in collaboration with the Police and Customs.
In December, exemplary trials were held, imposing sentences of up to 15 years for possession and sale of small quantities of drugs. However, many Cubans find this approach inadequate, as it primarily revolves around repression and seizure. Civil organizations and families of addicts argue that drug use should also be addressed as a public health issue, with prevention campaigns, specialized medical assistance, and emergency protocols for those experiencing severe intoxication.
A Call for Comprehensive Action
Irma Broek's video underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive strategy against "the chemical." The mix of youth, social vulnerability, and limited information about the risks turns Cuban neighborhoods into potential chaos zones. In response, society demands a genuine commitment from authorities that goes beyond drug seizures, encompassing education, rehabilitation, and protection for those trapped in the consumption spiral, now lying helpless on the streets.
Understanding the Synthetic Drug Crisis in Cuba
What is "the chemical" in Cuba?
"The chemical" refers to a type of synthetic cannabinoid designed to mimic marijuana but with much higher potency and toxicity, often mixed with various harmful substances.
How has the Cuban government responded to the synthetic drug crisis?
The government has focused on repression, conducting large-scale anti-drug operations and establishing the National Drug Observatory to monitor trends, but many believe this is insufficient.