A Cuban woman has publicly reported the violent theft of her motorcycle on Tuesday night in Havana's Cotorro municipality. Yuny Yusely Yuliana took to Facebook on Wednesday to share that her bike was forcibly taken, and the person riding it at the time was assaulted.
"Here's a picture of how they left my friend," she wrote, without providing further details about his condition. The incident took place in the Cotorro area of Havana.
Reward Offered for Information
In her post, the woman urged the public to be extremely cautious with their motorbikes and personal safety. She announced a reward for anyone who could provide useful information leading to the recovery of her vehicle. "I offer a reward for information," she confirmed, providing the phone number 53879460 for direct contact.
The post was accompanied by a gallery of images, one of which shows a young man visibly battered and bruised from the attack.
Escalating Crime Wave in Cuba
In recent weeks, the theft of electric motorcycles has surged, becoming one of the most common and concerning crimes across various Cuban provinces. In Havana, a family reported that criminals broke into their home and stole a motorbike from inside, raising alarm over how easily thieves operated even within a secured residence.
A few days ago, authorities announced the arrest of a Cuban man linked to several motorcycle thefts in the capital, following identification by neighbors who assisted in the investigation. Despite this, social media users continue to criticize the police's lack of effectiveness and the low recovery rate of stolen vehicles.
Emerging Scams and Rising Insecurity
In the eastern part of the country, new scams are also being reported. In Guantánamo, motorcyclists have warned of a scam involving the buying and selling of motorcycle parts, where scammers use fake advertisements to lure victims and seize their transportation.
These incidents underscore a sustained rise in crime related to electric motorbikes in Cuba, which serve as a crucial means of transport for thousands of workers. In the face of a shortage of parts, fuel, and police oversight, thefts and violent assaults have become a routine aspect of life on Cuban streets.
Understanding the Rising Theft of Motorbikes in Cuba
What actions are being taken to combat motorcycle theft in Havana?
Authorities have made some arrests, and local residents are increasingly participating in investigations, although many criticize the police for their limited effectiveness in recovering stolen vehicles.
Why are electric motorcycles a frequent target for theft in Cuba?
Electric motorcycles are in high demand due to the scarcity of fuel and parts for other vehicles, making them a prime target for thieves.
How are scams related to motorcycle parts affecting Cuban motorcyclists?
Scammers are using fake advertisements to trick motorcyclists into illicit transactions, resulting in the loss of both money and transportation means.