A fresh scam related to the buying and selling of motorcycles has emerged in Guantánamo, leaving at least one individual as a victim of a cleverly disguised theft scheme. Reported on Facebook by user Alexander Ríos Cruz, this fraudulent practice involves offering a motorcycle for rent and providing an ID card for the client to photograph as a form of assurance.
However, once the vehicle is handed over, the supposed owner sells it through another channel and then reports it as stolen. "They rent you the motorcycle, give you their ID to photograph for security, then sell the motorcycle and report it stolen. You never see it again," Ríos highlighted in a post on Wednesday.
In the case shared, the motorcycle was eventually recovered, but the buyers lost all their money without any possibility of legal recourse since the vehicle was registered as stolen. This incident has sparked concern among social media users and residents in Guantánamo and other provinces, with some sharing similar stories.
Community Reactions and Broader Implications
Adany Crespo from Artemisa shared, "The same thing happened to me; in my case, the person who rented me the motorcycle is now under arrest, and the motorcycle is gone." Meanwhile, Eduardo García offered advice and a warning: "Do not lend or rent out your motorcycle; today's times are not like before."
For Milagros Ramírez, the issue runs deeper: "Do you know what the problem is? It's that idleness is allowed here. People don't study or work, their minds aren't occupied with anything positive or progressive. The government should mobilize these idle lands for farming rice, tobacco, and coffee."
Rising Insecurity Across Cuba
The insecurity associated with motorcycle thefts and scams is escalating in various Cuban provinces. A Cuban living in Miami fell victim to fraud while trying to purchase an electric motorcycle for his sister in Cuba, losing $1,200 after dealing with bogus sellers on Revolico who vanished with the money.
In Santiago de Cuba, the police held a political event to return seven stolen motorcycles, while citizens questioned the effectiveness of the MININT and reported a surge in thefts and assaults affecting those relying on these vehicles for work. One desperate Cuban offered 200,000 pesos as a reward for his stolen motorcycle in Havana, a gesture echoed by a $1,000 reward in Villa Clara for information leading to the recovery of another stolen vehicle.
The crimes extend beyond digital scams or straightforward thefts. A surveillance camera in Havana recorded the precise moment an electric motorcycle was stolen, showcasing the boldness of thieves even in busy areas during daylight.
Police Operations and Organized Crime
The severity of this issue is also evident in police operations. A recent crackdown led to the arrest of three individuals involved in a multi-million peso motorcycle theft in Pinar del Río, confirming the presence of organized networks operating with both aggression and speed.
Understanding Motorcycle Scams in Cuba
What is the new motorcycle scam in Guantánamo?
The scam involves renting out motorcycles and providing an ID for security. The renter then sells the motorcycle via another channel and reports it as stolen, leaving the buyer with no legal recourse.
How are the authorities responding to motorcycle thefts in Cuba?
Authorities have organized events for the return of stolen motorcycles and conducted operations leading to arrests, although the effectiveness of these measures is questioned by citizens.
Why is motorcycle theft a growing problem in Cuba?
The increase in thefts is linked to economic challenges, lack of employment, and inadequate law enforcement, contributing to a rise in organized crime and bold thefts.