A tourist fell victim to a brazen robbery on April 30 while strolling down a bustling street in Old Havana. A video shared by the independent outlet Cubanet captures the aftermath of the young woman's ordeal, as she and other tourists come to terms with what happened. Witnesses reported that a man on a motorcycle aggressively snatched the woman's backpack in the middle of the day, shocking onlookers.
The incident took place on Teniente Rey Street, between Habana and Aguiar, an area popular with both locals and international visitors. Eyewitnesses stated that after the theft, several tourists began calling for help and demanded the presence of the National Revolutionary Police (PNR). However, no officers arrived on the scene even thirty minutes following the event.
This type of crime, involving snatching from a moving motorcycle, has become increasingly common in Havana. The rising wave of street violence, coupled with the authorities' inadequate response, is heightening the sense of insecurity among residents and tourists alike. Social media erupted with comments after the video circulated, many harshly criticizing the Cuban government's failure to protect both its citizens and visitors.
Some users sarcastically mentioned the futility of calling the police, while others voiced concerns over the deteriorating public order on the island. One commenter lamented, "Cuba wasn't like this," while others were more blunt: "Not even tourists are safe," "This is a pressure cooker," and "No travel to Cuba," reflecting widespread frustration and disillusionment.
On the same day, two more tourists were assaulted in Old Havana. These young Russian women had arrived in Cuba for a planned 12-day stay in Varadero. During their visit to Old Havana, they were repeatedly attacked by two thieves who managed to steal a purse containing cash, personal documents, and a passport from one of them.
Such incidents reignite the debate over the country's public safety crisis, exacerbated by severe economic shortages and institutional collapse affecting all state levels. While the regime continues to promote tourism as a crucial source of revenue, events like this highlight the dangerous disconnect between official propaganda and everyday reality.
To date, authorities have not provided any information regarding the attacker's identity or progress in the investigation. It also remains unclear whether the tourist managed to recover her belongings.
Public Safety Concerns in Cuba
How common are motorcycle robberies in Havana?
Motorcycle robberies, where thieves snatch belongings from moving bikes, have become increasingly prevalent in Havana.
What has been the public reaction to the recent crime wave in Cuba?
The public has reacted with frustration and disillusionment, often criticizing the Cuban government's inability to ensure safety for both residents and tourists.
Have there been any developments in the investigation of the tourist muggings?
As of now, no information has been released about the suspect's identity or progress in the investigation, and it's unclear if the victims have recovered their belongings.