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Cuban Customs Uncovers Cocaine Hidden in Backpack at Havana Airport

Wednesday, April 30, 2025 by Abigail Marquez

The Cuban Customs Authority recently thwarted an attempt to smuggle cocaine concealed in a backpack at Havana's José Martí International Airport, as reported by official sources on social media. According to a statement shared on the social media platform X by the First Deputy Chief of Customs, William Pérez González, the drug was discovered hidden in a double lining inside the backpack.

This incident is part of what the Customs' official page describes as a "new international drug trafficking operation," successfully intercepted by the combined efforts of Cuba's Customs and the Ministry of the Interior's Anti-Drug Agency. Although the identity of the arrested individual remains undisclosed, it is presumed that the passenger was attempting to enter the country when confronted by customs officials.

Increasing Drug Smuggling Attempts

There has been a noticeable uptick in similar cases at Cuban airports, prompting authorities to intensify security measures to counter increasingly sophisticated smuggling techniques. In recent weeks, Cuban Customs has intercepted various attempts to bring drugs into the country through inventive means.

One notable case in early April involved an individual trying to smuggle methamphetamine inside rechargeable light bulbs—an item commonly imported due to Cuba's ongoing energy crisis. In another incident, customs officers found synthetic cannabinoids absorbed into paper sheets disguised within disposable diapers at the capital's airport.

Everyday Items as Camouflage

An additional arrest occurred at Varadero Airport, where an individual was caught attempting to smuggle hashish hidden in a shampoo bottle. This case highlighted the rising use of everyday items as camouflage, a tactic that is becoming increasingly common.

Authorities emphasize that these methods are designed to circumvent border controls and target younger demographics. This underscores the urgent need for enhanced training of customs and police forces to address these evolving threats more effectively.

Heightened Efforts Against Drug Trafficking

The Cuban regime has escalated its campaign against drug trafficking, a problem that has worsened and reached unprecedented levels in recent years. This escalation correlates with the deepening economic and social crisis gripping the nation.

Frequently Asked Questions about Drug Trafficking in Cuba

How are drugs being smuggled into Cuba?

Drugs are being smuggled into Cuba using creative methods, such as concealing them in everyday items like backpacks, light bulbs, diapers, and shampoo bottles.

What measures are Cuban authorities taking to combat drug smuggling?

Cuban authorities are intensifying security measures at airports and enhancing the training of customs and police forces to effectively counter sophisticated smuggling techniques.

Why has drug trafficking become more prevalent in Cuba?

The increase in drug trafficking is linked to the worsening economic and social crisis in Cuba, which has created an environment conducive to such illegal activities.

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