In a recent social media post, Cuban Prime Minister Manuel Marrero denounced the stabbing of a police officer in Camagüey, an incident that occurred last Thursday on the city's bustling boulevard. The attack unfolded when a man repeatedly stabbed the officer in broad daylight, causing panic among the onlookers who witnessed the scene.
Marrero took to X, condemning the "reprehensible act" and insisting that the perpetrator will face the full force of revolutionary justice. "Such events are incompatible with our society and will not be tolerated," he asserted. However, his message did not garner the expected solidarity; instead, it sparked a wave of criticism and backlash online. Users accused him of hypocrisy and a biased stance in condemning violence.
Many pointed out the lack of similar government statements regarding the numerous femicides in Cuba over recent years. "Women are driven to suicide because they can't feed their children, and there's no outcry—those lives don't matter," one user responded. Another comment directly lambasted the regime: "You are all a mafia, a gang of HYPOCRITES."
The issue of political repression was also raised. "What about the police who kill protesters demanding freedom and rights, Marrero?" questioned an internet user, referencing the case of Diubis Luarencio Tejeda, a protester killed by an officer during the 11J demonstrations. "Equally condemnable are the repression and imprisonment suffered by thousands of Cubans for peacefully opposing the regime you represent and defend," expressed a user known as Liborio in Cuba.
Disparities in Response to Violence
The media and official attention given to this attack, contrasted with the silence on other violent acts—especially those against women unaffiliated with the government—highlight a disparity in Cuba where some victims are valued more than others. "She made it to the NTV because she's with the PNR. Once again, the common folk don't matter," remarked another user. A woman demanded, "I hope measures are taken in honor of this officer because until now, femicides have been ignored."
Activist Irma Broek shared surveillance footage on Facebook showing the events as they unfolded. The video reveals the officer standing and chatting with another woman when suddenly a burly man approaches. As the officer starts to leave with her companion, the man discards a cigarette and a beer can before launching his attack. The crowd fled, except for the officer's companion, who tried to fend off the attacker with an umbrella.
Broek argued that the attack lacked political motivations, claiming it stemmed from personal issues between the attacker and the officer, allegedly over infidelity. She identified the assailant as Osmanen Pichardo, who was apprehended following a police operation on Calle Medio.
Official Response and Ongoing Investigation
The Ministry of the Interior (MININT) labeled the incident as "despicable" in a statement that was broadcasted on the national newscast. The official note described the attack as "vicious" and a threat to the officer's life. It emphasized the community's support for the victim and the swift action by authorities that led to the assailant's quick arrest.
The statement concluded by assuring that the detained individual will face the full weight of revolutionary justice. Journalist Yosmany Mayeta reported on Instagram that the police officer's name is "Dayana" and that she had suffered six stab wounds. The officer is still undergoing medical treatment, and her current condition remains unknown. This incident has reignited a national conversation about violence, power, and justice in Cuba.
Questions about Violence and Justice in Cuba
What did Manuel Marrero say about the Camagüey stabbing incident?
Manuel Marrero condemned the knife attack on the police officer, calling it a reprehensible act and stating that the perpetrator would face revolutionary justice.
How did the public react to Marrero's statement?
The public reacted with criticism and accused Marrero of hypocrisy, pointing out the government's inconsistent responses to violence, particularly against women.
Who was identified as the assailant in the Camagüey attack?
The assailant was identified as Osmanen Pichardo, who was arrested following a police operation.