The community of the Escolapios Church in Guanabacoa, Havana, reported an incident of theft and vandalism that took place on Tuesday night.
According to a statement released by the parish community itself, the crime resulted in the theft of various items and significant damage to several areas of the church. The statement also expressed frustration over the authorities' lack of immediate response, even after the incident was reported to the emergency number 106.
The perpetrators made off with candelabras from the Holy Sacrament, the Holy Family, and other religious images, along with fans, light bulbs, and liturgical ornaments. They also caused physical damage by breaking a display case and wooden cabinets.
The statement emphasized that the stolen items hold not only material worth but also an "immense spiritual value" for the congregation.
The report further notes that the intruders forced and broke the wooden bars of a window to gain entry, which the community believes indicates a premeditated and violent action against the sacred space.
Although the Escolapios reported the crime and filed a complaint, they claim that by the time they issued their statement, no officials had arrived at the scene to gather evidence, assess the damage, or begin an investigation. They describe this oversight as a feeling of institutional neglect.
"We feel abandoned by those who have the constitutional duty to protect citizens and our heritage. If they don't respond to a crime of this magnitude, where is the security we deserve?" they wrote.
In response to the incident, the community is demanding an immediate and thorough investigation, the urgent presence of law enforcement, and effective security measures for religious spaces, along with an institutional response to crime.
They also urge neighbors to share the complaint and provide any information that might help clarify the situation.
Increasing Church Vandalism in Cuba
The Catholic News Agency reported in 2024 that since March 2023, over 50 incidents of theft and vandalism have occurred in Cuban churches.
At least 50 cases of robbery and vandalism have been documented in 34 parishes and religious houses across Cuba since March 2023, with most incidents occurring in Havana. Despite this, authorities have taken little action to curb the problem.
The report noted that almost twenty of these crimes were committed by a single individual who remains at large due to the police's failure to respond promptly.
FAQs on Church Thefts and Vandalism in Cuba
What was stolen from the Escolapios Church in Guanabacoa?
Thieves took candelabras, fans, light bulbs, and liturgical ornaments, causing significant damage to the church's property.
How has the community reacted to the lack of response by the authorities?
The community feels neglected and has expressed frustration at the authorities' failure to respond to such a serious crime, demanding immediate action and protection.
How frequent are church robberies in Cuba?
Since March 2023, over 50 robberies and vandalism incidents have been reported in churches and religious houses, primarily in Havana.