The Cuban Telecommunications Company, Empresa de Telecomunicaciones de Cuba S.A. (ETECSA), has reported yet another instance of vandalism targeting one of its cell towers in San Vicente, Santiago de Cuba. This latest attack has left over 2,500 users without mobile phone service or internet access. The company confirmed the theft of batteries as well as the destruction of additional equipment, highlighting the alarming trend of assaults on the region's telecommunications infrastructure.
A representative from ETECSA, speaking to state television, detailed that the affected cell tower was newly installed and set to be operational the day after the theft occurred. The official noted that these systems are equipped with battery banks designed to maintain service during power outages, making them prime targets for thieves. In this instance, however, the perpetrators did not stop at stealing batteries; they also demolished rectifiers, wiring, and other costly imported equipment, inflicting significant financial losses on the nation.
Impact on San Vicente Residents
The official described the acts as vandalism and warned that such sabotage not only impacts the company but also "undermines socio-economic development" by cutting off entire communities. He urged the public to report suspicious activities and assist in safeguarding these critical installations.
As a result of the theft, residents in the area have been forced to travel long distances to find mobile signal, at a time when internet and phone communications are vital for staying in touch with family and managing daily tasks. The remote location of the cell tower has complicated efforts to identify those responsible, who remain at large.
ETECSA acknowledged that many stolen batteries end up on the black market or are used in households to power inverters, making it even harder to track the culprits. The company reiterated that the stolen and damaged equipment is difficult to replace quickly, and there is no set date to restore service in San Vicente.
Recurring Issue Across the Region
This incident is not an isolated case. ETECSA workers in Santiago have frequently reported on social media about the surge in sabotage against cell towers in the province, with some sites being targeted as many as six times. The most sought-after items include battery banks, rectifiers, cables, and fuel for generator sets, all of which have high value and utility in the clandestine market.
ETECSA engineer Luis Enrique Torres Almarales labeled these events as "intentional sabotage" that harm the national economy and severely disrupt community connectivity. He called for increased police vigilance and exemplary measures against perpetrators, reminding that telecommunications workers are not security guards but technicians responsible for maintaining network operations.
Stricter Penalties for Vandals
The Cuban government has issued a warning that acts of vandalism against telecommunications infrastructure will be prosecuted under Article 125 of the Penal Code, which classifies such offenses as sabotage, carrying penalties of up to 15 years in prison. Authorities argue that these attacks pose a threat to national security, particularly amidst an energy and technological crisis. However, critics argue that the official narrative also serves as a smokescreen to obscure the declining maintenance and vulnerability of the networks.
In other provinces like Holguín, there have been reports of fuel theft from generator sets, indicating a pattern that extends beyond Santiago de Cuba.
No Resolution in Sight
In the first months of 2025, Santiago de Cuba has seen at least 17 cell towers vandalized, many of which were recently installed. These attacks occur in both urban and rural areas, often at night and during prolonged power outages. ETECSA claims to have enhanced remote monitoring of its installations but admits that criminals have adapted by accessing cabinets from the rear to bypass alarms. Meanwhile, thousands of Cubans remain disconnected every time a theft occurs, exposing the structural weaknesses of the island's sole telecommunications provider and the persistence of a problem without a clear solution.
FAQs on ETECSA Cell Tower Thefts
What is the main reason for thefts at ETECSA cell towers?
The main targets in these thefts are battery banks, which are crucial for maintaining service during power outages and have high resale value on the black market.
How does the theft of cell tower equipment affect local communities?
The thefts disrupt mobile and internet services, forcing residents to travel long distances for connectivity and impacting their ability to communicate and perform daily tasks.
What measures is ETECSA taking to prevent further thefts?
ETECSA has increased remote monitoring of its installations, although criminals have adapted to evade these security measures.