A vicious attack involving several women unfolded at the intersection of Trocha and Cristina streets in Santiago de Cuba, shocking passersby who witnessed the scene. The incident was reported on Sunday on Facebook by independent journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada. He described how the assailant struck one woman until she fell to the ground, dragged another by her hair, and delivered blows to a third woman’s face.
According to the post, another person handed the attacker a large knife, which he used to threaten those attempting to intervene, spreading panic throughout the area. As of now, it remains unclear whether the victims sustained serious injuries or if the attacker has been identified or apprehended.
The journalist called for public assistance to locate the perpetrator, accompanying his post with photos that, despite their poor quality, could help in identifying the assailants. The situation sparked outrage among social media users. Noelvis Nuñez commented, “This is real-time news; it happened just moments ago, but thankfully no one was injured.”
Kirenia Curbelo Godínez questioned, “Where is the police? No one does anything; it’s a disgrace for the province.” Irma Anais Montoya Hinojosa went further, asking, “Where is the PNR? What are they doing? How do they earn their salaries, which come from taxpayers’ sweat? How long will this continue?”
Yunita Barrios suggested, “It’s best to stay home peacefully, even without electricity,” while Yeny Álvarez warned, “This has spiraled out of control, panic will spread, and we won’t be able to go out. What’s happening to our Santiago?”
Marbelis Serrano López emphasized, “They need to find the person who handed over the knife. That person wanted more than just a beating.”
Rising Street Violence in Santiago de Cuba
Street violence in Santiago de Cuba has seen several alarming incidents recently. A spate of stabbings shook the city when two violent events occurred on the same day, highlighting the increasing insecurity and aggressiveness in public spaces.
Days later, a violent altercation took place outside a cellphone repair shop, where numerous individuals engaged in a brawl in broad daylight. Footage captured by witnesses shows how physical confrontations have become normalized as a way to settle everyday disputes in deteriorating urban settings.
In another recent occurrence, a man was attacked with a machete in the city, underscoring the rise in knife-related assaults and the authorities’ insufficient response to curtail such incidents. Residents have voiced their concern over the frequency and severity of these situations.
FAQs on Santiago de Cuba's Street Violence
What triggered the recent attack on women in Santiago de Cuba?
The attack appeared to be an unprovoked act of violence, where the assailant targeted multiple women on the street, causing panic among onlookers.
Has there been an increase in street violence in Santiago de Cuba?
Yes, there has been a noticeable rise in street violence, including stabbings and physical altercations, reflecting growing insecurity in the city.
What are residents saying about the police response?
Residents have expressed frustration and disappointment with the police response, questioning their effectiveness and role in ensuring public safety.