In a recent ruling, the People's Provincial Court of Havana has sentenced driver Yuni Valdés Pérez to a decade behind bars for sabotage, following a vehicular incident involving a state-owned bus in the city of Cárdenas, Matanzas. The incident, as detailed in an official statement by the People's Supreme Court, transpired on May 5, 2025.
Valdés Pérez, who was operating a tow truck (locally known as escatolina) for Empresa Cubacar Varadero, left his vehicle obstructing traffic on a public road. He then proceeded to a nearby establishment to consume alcohol, eventually becoming heavily intoxicated. This set the stage for a confrontation with the driver of a Yutong bus from Empresa Transmetro de Cárdenas, who requested him to clear the road. The altercation escalated, with both parties exchanging offensive remarks and threats involving blunt objects, as described in the court's decision.
In a state of agitation, Valdés Pérez returned to his vehicle and reversed it into the state bus with force. He repeated this action at increased speed, inflicting substantial damage to the bus, which remains unrepaired to this day.
Initially, the state media reported that Valdés faced charges of public disorder and property damage. However, the charges were later elevated to a more severe offense concerning state security, resulting in a conviction for sabotage.
The court cited the severity of the offense, the attack on state property, and Valdés Pérez's prior behavior as aggravating factors. The sentencing was guided by the provisions of Opinion No. 475 from the Governing Council of the People's Supreme Court.
The verdict was delivered on Thursday, September 18, by the Court for Crimes against State Security, which has jurisdiction over cases impacting state security in the western region of the country. Both the defendant and the prosecution retain the right to appeal, with the case to be reviewed by the appropriate chamber of the People's Supreme Court.
Understanding the Legal Implications of the Matanzas Bus Incident
What led to Yuni Valdés Pérez's conviction for sabotage?
Yuni Valdés Pérez was convicted of sabotage after repeatedly ramming a state-owned bus with his tow truck in Cárdenas, Matanzas, while under the influence of alcohol. The act was deemed a significant threat to state security.
What were the initial charges against Valdés Pérez?
Initially, Valdés Pérez faced charges of public disorder and property damage, which were later escalated to sabotage, a more severe charge related to state security.
Can Valdés Pérez appeal the court's decision?
Yes, both Yuni Valdés Pérez and the prosecution have the right to appeal the decision. The appeal will be reviewed by the corresponding chamber of the People's Supreme Court.