On Thursday, locals and passersby on Rastro Street in Santiago de Cuba apprehended an elderly man accused of swindling pedestrians. Although witnesses recounted his deceptive actions, specifics about his methods were not disclosed.
The individual was tied to a street pole as residents awaited police arrival to formally transport him to a police station, according to independent journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada on his Facebook page.
The accompanying comments reflected the residents' outrage and provided various perspectives on the incident's causes and repercussions.
Several users noted that some individuals exploit their appearance and age to commit fraud. "From personal experience, I know people who use their age and looks to deceive," one resident commented.
Others argued that desperation does not justify criminal behavior and demanded justice. "Many are in the same dire situation yet choose not to steal or defraud; they ask for help instead," stated another online user.
Numerous comments identified the detained man as Manuel, a familiar figure in the area, alleging he had been defrauding locals for some time.
"That's Manolo; he lives on Carretera del Morro. He's been cheating people for a while, and now he's caught," one user asserted, while others called for strict measures against those committing crimes amid the economic crisis.
The community, according to reports, resorted to citizen's arrest due to perceived impunity and the need to protect pedestrians until the police took charge of the alleged fraudster.
A recent report detailed a scam in Cuba where criminals impersonated a relative on WhatsApp to solicit money under the guise of an airport emergency.
Meanwhile, Cuban citizen María Padilla reported on social media in late September that the police in Camagüey refused to investigate a phone scam attempt, despite her providing concrete information about the suspected perpetrators.
Street violence in Santiago de Cuba has resulted in several alarming incidents in recent weeks, highlighting the island's growing insecurity. Residents claim that violent and criminal acts have increased, with authorities yet to provide an effective response.
Furthermore, they demand greater oversight and security, criticizing a rising sense of impunity that endangers the province's most vulnerable communities.
Understanding the Fraud and Crime Situation in Santiago de Cuba
What led residents to detain the alleged fraudster?
Residents took action due to a perceived lack of response from authorities and the need to protect the community from ongoing fraudulent activities.
Who is the accused individual?
The man is identified as Manuel, also known as Manolo, who is known in the area for allegedly defrauding locals for an extended period.
How are locals reacting to the increase in crime?
Residents are expressing frustration and demanding more effective action from authorities to address the rising crime and ensure community safety.