What began as a dream vacation in Cuba turned into a nightmare for two young Russian tourists who were violently attacked while visiting the capital. This brutal incident, which took place in the streets of Old Havana, adds to the growing concern about the safety of foreign visitors on the island.
The victims, known only as Olga and her friend according to Russian media, had traveled to Cuba with plans for a 12-day stay in Varadero, one of the country's most popular tourist spots. They reportedly spent about 360,000 rubles on accommodations at a resort and later booked a private tour to Havana, costing $250 per person. The package included transportation, lodging in an apartment, and a tour guide who assured them that they would be safe both day and night.
However, reality proved quite different. During an evening stroll through the colorful yet increasingly vulnerable streets of Havana's historic district, the two women were accosted by two unknown men wearing dark glasses who attempted to snatch their belongings. The tourists resisted and tried to defend themselves, prompting a physical assault by the thieves, who repeatedly struck them before fleeing with one of the victim's bags containing cash, documents, and her passport.
Despite their cries for help, the women reported that no passersby intervened, and there were no police officers in the vicinity. Visibly injured and in shock, they returned to their lodgings, where they claimed they received no assistance from the staff in addressing their injuries or advice on reporting the crime.
Due to the theft of her passport, Olga had to arrange for a special exit certificate to leave Cuba and return to Russia. Back in her homeland, she is relieved to have survived. Her ordeal led her to offer advice to others planning a vacation on the island: use taxis to travel from place to place, carry a minimal amount of valuables, and only engage with locals when necessary.
The initial report of the case by the Telegram channel SHOT has caused alarm among Russian users who traditionally consider Cuba a safe travel destination.
Rising Concerns Over Safety
The incident has reignited worries about the escalating insecurity perceived by some tourists in Cuban tourist areas, particularly in Havana. Although Cuban authorities maintain that the nation remains one of the safest destinations in Latin America, reports of thefts, assaults, and scams against tourists have been increasing in recent years, especially with the worsening economic crisis on the island.
To date, there has been no official announcement regarding the identification or arrest of those responsible for the attack. The Russian embassy in Cuba has yet to comment on the incident, although Russian local media report that the victims have returned home and are in good health, albeit deeply affected by their experience.
The episode has sparked outrage on social media, where users are calling for increased protection for tourists and questioning the preparedness and response of authorities to such crimes. For now, Olga and her friend hope to leave the trauma behind and regain a sense of calm, though they admit their perception of Cuba has been permanently altered.
Safety Concerns for Tourists in Cuba
What precautions should tourists take when visiting Cuba?
Tourists are advised to use taxis for transportation, carry minimal valuables, and only engage with locals when necessary to enhance their safety.
How are Cuban authorities addressing tourist safety concerns?
Cuban authorities claim that the country remains one of the safest in Latin America, but incidents of theft and assault have been on the rise, prompting calls for better security measures.
Has there been any official response from the Russian embassy in Cuba?
As of now, the Russian embassy in Cuba has not made an official statement regarding the incident involving the Russian tourists.