A pair of women were recorded by a security camera in a small business in Central Havana as they brazenly stole two large blocks of cheese. The footage shows the duo maneuvering to the back of the store near a refrigerator. One of the women cleverly wedges a cheese block between her thighs, while the other uses her ample figure to hide another block under her chest.
The video was shared on Facebook by user Rey Semino, who issued a stark warning: "Be wary of these women who are part of groups that target businesses to steal. Don’t be fooled by their age... they are hardened criminals." Semino indicated plans to report the women and urged viewers to take note of their faces, labeling them as "specialized thieves."
Alberto Arego, a journalist, provided further details, stating that the incident took place around midday Friday at a shop located at the intersection of Zapata and Infanta.
Additional Details on the Suspects
Accompanying the video, Semino also shared a snippet of a WhatsApp conversation where someone alleged the women are repeat offenders. The conversation mentioned another video circulating, showing them stealing bottles of rum. It was also noted they often use a red Lada, which they park nearby during their thefts.
Public Reaction: From Outrage to Reflection
The video sparked a flurry of comments ranging from anger to a deeper reflection on the underlying issues. Many highlighted the severe economic crisis, inflation, and food shortages in Cuba as factors driving up prices of goods like cheese, leading to increased thefts in private businesses. While some partially justified the act due to desperate circumstances, the majority condemned it.
Commenters expressed strong opinions: “No matter how desperate, I’d rather starve than resort to this”; “Need doesn’t justify being a thief... they’re used to stealing,” remarked two users. Others clarified that not all small businesses are state-owned, with many being family-run enterprises that provide jobs. Such thefts significantly harm these small ventures.
“Many are self-employed who buy goods in dollars and sell them in the national currency”; “These are not state-owned products, they belong to private business owners and it’s wrong, they must be punished”; “Stealing from individuals is never justified, not like taking from the state,” emphasized three commentators.
Amid Shock and Irony
The incident also inspired comments filled with shock and irony: “Wow, that’s embarrassing… how can she even walk with that cheese block between her legs?”; “It's like magic… you’d have to train for that”; “Cheese for dinner tonight”; “Cheese omelet… because they’ll likely get caught.”
Many demanded justice and follow-through on the case. “It would be great to see the penalties they receive to make it impactful”; “They must be reported, call the police… they are criminals capable of anything”; “Justice must be served to ensure they get what they deserve.”
Between Embarrassment and Collective Outrage
Embarrassment was the prevailing sentiment. Dozens of comments simply stated phrases like “What a shame!”, “So embarrassing!” or “My God, how disgraceful!”; “All is lost: morals, shame, respect, humility… people have lost their values.”
This episode not only revealed a criminal act but also highlighted the societal divide on how such thefts are perceived amidst Cuba’s ongoing crisis. Some view it as an unavoidable consequence of dire need, while others see it as an inexcusable act that harms the social fabric and local businesses.
Understanding Cuba's Economic Crisis and Its Impact on Crime
What factors are contributing to the increase in thefts in Cuba?
The economic crisis, inflation, and food shortages in Cuba have significantly increased the prices of essential goods, leading to a rise in thefts as people struggle to meet basic needs.
Are all small businesses in Cuba state-owned?
No, many small businesses in Cuba are privately owned, often family-run, and provide employment. These businesses can suffer greatly from thefts as they operate independently of state support.
How has the public reacted to the incident of cheese theft in Havana?
The public reaction has ranged from condemnation and embarrassment to reflections on the socio-economic conditions driving such acts. While some empathize due to the crisis, most view the theft as harmful to society and local businesses.