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Two Military Service Recruits Killed in Bus Accident at Mariel Special Development Zone: What We Know So Far

Tuesday, May 27, 2025 by Madison Pena

Reports have emerged that two young recruits serving their Active Military Service (AMS) lost their lives when a bus crashed into them at the Mariel Special Development Zone (ZEDM) in Artemisa province. Despite the gravity of the incident, there has been no acknowledgment from official state sources.

The tragic event reportedly occurred around 3 p.m. on Sunday when a bus veered out of control and violently struck a security booth at the entrance to the facility, according to initial reports by the news outlet La Tijera. This accident is said to have resulted in the deaths of three individuals: the two recruits stationed at the booth and the bus driver.

According to these early reports, one recruit died instantly, while the other and the driver succumbed to their injuries on the way to the hospital. However, in the comments section of various posts that circulated this news, some individuals with direct knowledge of the situation clarified that the driver survived and is currently hospitalized.

The independent outlet 14ymedio also reported that the driver did not perish but was instead taken to Calixto García Hospital in Havana, where he underwent surgery. This information was confirmed by several individuals close to the driver.

As for the cause of the accident, several theories are being discussed, including that the driver might have suffered a hypoglycemic episode, or there could have been brake failure or speeding involved. Yet, no official explanation has been provided.

The Victims and Community Response

Regarding the victims, it has been revealed that one of the recruits hailed from San Germán in Holguín's Urbano Noris municipality, while the other was from Najasa in Camagüey. The latter has been identified on social media as "Maikel." According to La Tijera, the family of one of the recruits decided against a military presence or honor guard at the funeral, which has been supported online as a dignified protest, though this is unconfirmed.

Official Silence and Public Outcry

To date, Cuban authorities have not issued any official statement about the accident. Their silence has sparked outrage among the public, who have taken to social media platforms to voice their grief and denounce the Compulsory Military Service, which many view as an unnecessary and dangerous burden.

Comments on social media overwhelmingly criticize the service, with repeated calls to "end Compulsory Military Service," "stop killing our youth," and demands for immediate change. Support for the bereaved families is widespread, accompanied by calls for civil disobedience against what is viewed as a tool for youth oppression in Cuba.

Military Service Under Scrutiny

This incident adds to a long list of tragic events associated with Military Service in Cuba. Earlier this year, 13 young people died in Rafael Freyre, Holguín, due to an explosion involving military equipment. Nine of these victims were recruits, and their families never received their bodies.

Additionally, young recruits were among those killed in the catastrophic explosion at the Matanzas Supertanker Base in 2022. This history of fatalities, accidents, and lack of transparency has fueled growing public opposition to Military Service, extending beyond opposition groups to include ordinary parents and citizens.

The perception that the children of government officials do not partake in such service only heightens the sense of injustice and inequality. Social media has become a mirror for the country, reflecting a mix of sadness, anger, and helplessness. For many Cubans, these young individuals symbolize a generation forced to endure impositions and tragedies.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Mariel Zone Accident

What caused the bus accident at the Mariel Special Development Zone?

The exact cause of the accident remains unclear, with hypotheses ranging from a possible hypoglycemic episode experienced by the driver to brake failure or excessive speed. No official statement has been made.

Have the Cuban authorities responded to the accident?

As of now, Cuban authorities have not issued any official communication regarding the accident, leading to public outrage and criticism on social media.

How has the public reacted to the accident?

The public has expressed significant grief and anger over the incident, using social media to condemn the Compulsory Military Service and call for its end.

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