A reward of $500 has been announced by an individual named Alain Gómez for any reliable information leading to the whereabouts of a suspected thief sought in Bayamo, Granma. In a post shared this Saturday on the Facebook group "Todo lo Q Buscas en PLAYA y MARIANAO," Gómez accused a man named Leandro Vázquez Pompa of a burglary at his home.
“I'm offering $500 for details on the location of this thief, Leandro Vázquez Pompa from Bayamo, the same person who burglarized my house and is now wanted by the police across the country,” Gómez declared. “Note, I need genuine information because I'll be going to the location with the police. My number is 52718290. Blessings,” the victim wrote, accompanying his message with a photo of the accused.
Gómez also shared a message in the Facebook group "Latinos GAYS Madrid España," providing further details about the alleged criminal. According to Gómez, who resides in New York, during a visit to his Cuban home last year, Leandro Vázquez Pompa and accomplices stole a PlayStation console, a music speaker, shoes, and cash. Cuban authorities conducted scent and fingerprint tests, which allegedly pointed to Vázquez Pompa as one of the culprits now wanted nationwide.
Moreover, Gómez warned group members that the alleged thief solicits through social media, describing him as part of the "gay thieves." He urged caution and sent blessings to all users. In recent months, Cuba has seen a surge in citizens taking justice into their own hands due to increasing insecurity, often bypassing official channels.
Instances like the one in November 2024 in Havana, where a security camera captured a man stealing in broad daylight, have led victims to offer monetary rewards for information. Similarly, in October of the same year, a Cuban living in the U.S. promised a million and a half Cuban pesos for information on another theft, highlighting how international connections influence the quest for justice amid perceived governmental inaction.
Last February, a Cuban doctor publicly reported the theft of her university degree, a critical document for her profession, offering financial compensation for its return. In March, a Havana residence suffered two robbery attempts in quick succession, underscoring the vulnerability faced even by those who attempt to bolster their security. In desperation and frustration with official responses, the affected family offered a 50,000 Cuban peso reward for tips leading to the identification of the thieves.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crime and Insecurity in Cuba
What actions are citizens taking in response to crime in Cuba?
Faced with rising crime rates, many Cuban citizens are offering rewards for information that leads to the capture of criminals, often due to a lack of effective action from authorities.
How has international involvement influenced the search for justice in Cuba?
International connections, such as those with Cubans living abroad, have resulted in financial support and increased efforts to seek justice, often through monetary rewards for information on criminal activities.
Are there specific examples of crimes that have led to public rewards being offered?
Yes, several incidents, such as burglaries and thefts of personal and professional items, have prompted victims to offer financial rewards for information to aid in the apprehension of offenders.