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Restricted Zone Expands in Pilón and Niquero Due to Increased Drug Arrivals on Southern Granma Coast

Thursday, July 10, 2025 by Ethan Navarro

Restricted Zone Expands in Pilón and Niquero Due to Increased Drug Arrivals on Southern Granma Coast
Watching the Sea Detachments in Cuba. (archive image) - Image © ACN

The Ministry of the Interior in Granma province has announced an expansion of the restricted zone along the southern coast of Pilón and Niquero municipalities. This decision comes in response to the growing number of drug arrivals and the presence of individuals who illegally access the area to seize and later sell these substances.

According to a report from CNC TV Granma released on Tuesday, this measure aligns with Provincial Government Council Agreement No. 24/2025. It strictly prohibits access to both individuals and entities from Ensenada del Toro to Ensenada La Campana, extending one nautical mile into the sea.

The demarcated points marking the boundaries of this restricted area include Pesquero Alto, Punta Mono, Punta Morlote, Bajada de Samuel, Jagüey Caído (Camino Abajo del Uno), Cueva Paco Pérez, and Cueva Las Bajas, continuing along Camino de Todo el Día to ETECSA in Cabo Cruz.

This action addresses the ongoing issue of people venturing into the sea to collect drugs washed ashore, subsequently engaging in their illegal trade. The Ministry of the Interior has cautioned that anyone found within this perimeter without authorization is violating Resolution 135 of 2024, sanctioned by the Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces.

Historical Context and Recent Incidents

The phenomenon of drug wash-ups on Cuban shores, particularly in the eastern region, is not a new occurrence. It has historically prompted confiscation operations and restrictive measures by the authorities. In southern Granma and other eastern areas, numerous incidents of locals collecting illegal substances have been recorded. One significant event involved the collection of a ton of drugs along various shores, highlighting the scale of the issue and community involvement in these activities.

Authorities have also contended with the increase of transportation means associated with these illegal activities. For instance, the Ministry of the Interior seized five abandoned boats under suspicious circumstances, and another operation resulted in the confiscation of six additional vessels on the eastern coasts. These actions underscore the ongoing nature of maritime drug trafficking.

Impact of Maritime Drug Trafficking

In eastern Cuba, there have been significant seizures of narcotics, such as an operation where law enforcement confiscated two tons of marijuana in the country's east. This operation illustrated the severity of maritime drug trafficking and the increasing interest of illegal networks in exploiting these coastal routes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Expanded Restricted Zone in Granma

What areas are included in the expanded restricted zone in Granma?

The expanded restricted zone covers the area from Ensenada del Toro to Ensenada La Campana, extending one nautical mile into the sea. Key boundary points include Pesquero Alto, Punta Mono, and Cueva Las Bajas, among others.

Why has the restricted zone in Pilón and Niquero been expanded?

The expansion is due to an increase in drug arrivals and the illegal activities of individuals accessing the area to gather and sell these substances.

What are the potential consequences for unauthorized access to the restricted zone?

Individuals found within the restricted zone without authorization are violating the provisions of Resolution 135 of 2024, and may face legal consequences imposed by the Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces.

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