A 64-year-old Venezuelan woman has been sentenced in Santiago de Cuba for drug trafficking following a recent oral trial at the provincial court. This was reported by the Santiago de Cuba Provincial Prosecutor's Office on their Facebook page on Tuesday, emphasizing the exemplary nature of the judicial process and the system's commitment to the Zero Tolerance policy against drug trafficking.
The verdict was issued by the Chamber for Crimes against State Security, under the Penal function, of the Santiago de Cuba Provincial People's Court, as part of case 59 of 2025. This process coincided with the third national exercise aimed at preventing and tackling crime, corruption, illegalities, and social indiscipline. It seems to be another attempt by the regime to appear as if they are addressing the island's issues amidst one of the most severe economic crises in its history.
During the trial, the court found ample evidence to convict the foreign woman. Although the specific penalty was not disclosed, authorities stressed that this case serves as a clear warning to those involved in such activities, often referred to by the regime as "exemplary" processes. Cuba's penal system enforces strict penalties for those involved in illicit drug activities, regardless of nationality.
This past Monday, the Cuban government launched its Third National Exercise for the prevention and combat of crime, corruption, drug-related offenses, and social indiscipline. This large-scale operation, which will continue until Saturday, June 28, is controlled by the Communist Party, the Ministry of the Interior, and other state structures.
Led by Miguel Díaz-Canel from the Communist Party's Central Committee, the initiative includes popular surveillance actions, fiscal audits, energy inspections, and public trials for cases deemed “noteworthy.” This appears to be an effort to strengthen state control over the daily lives of Cubans.
As part of this effort, the Havana Provincial People's Court held two "exemplary trials" on Tuesday, focusing on drug trafficking and violent robbery. These hearings, conducted under the guise of "due process observance," align with the Cuban regime's strategy to demonstrate a tough stance against rising crime, particularly in the capital.
Understanding Cuba's Legal Stance on Drug Trafficking
What are the consequences of drug trafficking in Cuba?
Drug trafficking in Cuba is met with severe penalties, including long-term imprisonment, as part of the country's Zero Tolerance policy against narcotics.
How does Cuba's judicial system handle drug-related cases?
Cuba's judicial system conducts trials for drug-related cases under strict regulations, often highlighting them as exemplary to deter similar crimes.
What is the Third National Exercise in Cuba?
The Third National Exercise in Cuba is a large-scale operation aimed at preventing and combating crime, corruption, and drug-related offenses, controlled by the Communist Party and state structures.