A couple was recorded by security cameras committing theft at the private cafe La Flaca, located on Gervasio between Neptuno and Concordia in Centro Habana. The incident unfolded as the woman pretended to inspect goods at the counter while her accomplice swiftly entered a restricted area during a moment of distraction from the cashier, snatching a cell phone and quickly concealing it in his pocket.
The video reveals the act was meticulously orchestrated. After the man grabbed the phone, the woman positioned herself strategically behind the cashier to obstruct his view, and both thieves exited the premises nonchalantly.
The business owner, Rolando Aldama, reported the crime on social media, warning, "Beware of this pair of thieves, they stole a cell phone, please share the video," on Facebook. Upon realizing the theft of his phone, the cashier filed an official complaint at the police station located on Zanja between Escobar and Lealtad.
Aldama shared with CiberCuba that there were other individuals at the police station filing theft reports, highlighting a worrying trend of such incidents in the area.
The Role of Social Media in Crime Exposure
In recent months, the dissemination of videos on social media has become a crucial tool for exposing crimes like this, amid insufficient or delayed responses from authorities. More citizens are turning to platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Telegram to make thefts public, aiming to generate pressure and prompt action from the relevant institutions.
Home security cameras and the sharing of visual evidence have emerged as alternative methods for citizen defense, especially in a context where official channels are inefficient or inaccessible. Many users criticize the police's lack of immediate response, while others note that public exposure often leads to punitive measures.
FAQs on Theft and Public Exposure in Havana
How did the couple manage to steal the phone without being noticed?
The couple carefully coordinated their actions, with the woman distracting the cashier while the man quickly entered a restricted area to take the phone.
What role does social media play in addressing theft in Havana?
Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram are used by citizens to publicly expose thefts, applying pressure on authorities to take action.
Why are home security cameras important in Havana?
They provide visual evidence that can be shared on social media, serving as a means of citizen defense in a context where official channels may be inadequate.