The lifeless bodies of Francisco Torres Rodríguez, 80, and his son Yaciel Torres Remedio, 46, were discovered late Friday afternoon on a farm nestled in the mountainous region of Candelaria municipality, located within the province of Artemisa. This grim discovery, reported by the state-controlled newspaper El Artemiseño, occurred at the site known as farm El Cusco in the community of Las Terrazas.
The Ministry of the Interior (MININT) in Artemisa has confirmed that an investigation is currently underway. As of now, the identities of those responsible for this violent act remain unknown. Authorities have indicated that they suspect multiple individuals were involved in the crime.
The victims were found outside the residence, scattered across different areas of the farm, which supports the theory of a coordinated attack. To avoid compromising the investigation, officials have withheld further details from the public.
This incident has sent shockwaves through the community, prompting local authorities to extend their condolences to the victims' relatives, neighbors, and friends. In recent weeks, several violent events have deeply affected the populace, raising concerns about public safety.
Despite claims by the Cuban regime that crime rates are declining, the data tells a different story. Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz has stated that "the trend is downward, but the indicators remain high." However, the Cuban Citizen Audit Observatory (OCAC) reported 1,319 verified crimes from January to June 2025—nearly five times the number recorded in the same period in 2023 and more than in all of 2024. This equates to a record-breaking 7.3 crimes per day, highlighting the rise in criminal activity and the diversification of crime types on the island.
Among the main findings are 721 thefts, including 193 cases of livestock theft and slaughter, which directly link the food crisis to rising crime rates. Additionally, there were 63 documented murders, with victims ranging from women and children to the elderly, including 16 cases of femicide.
Key Questions About Crime in Artemisa
What led to the discovery of the bodies in Artemisa?
The bodies of Francisco Torres Rodríguez and his son Yaciel Torres Remedio were found on a farm in Candelaria municipality, Artemisa, due to a report by the local newspaper El Artemiseño.
What are the authorities doing about the murders in Artemisa?
The Ministry of the Interior in Artemisa is conducting an investigation into the murders, though the identities of the perpetrators remain unknown.
How has crime evolved in Cuba recently?
Crime in Cuba has escalated, with the OCAC reporting a sharp increase in verified crimes, including thefts and murders, in the first half of 2025 compared to previous years.