A bold attempt to steal an electric scooter was foiled on Thursday, thanks to the swift action of several residents in a bustling area of Santiago de Cuba.
Independent journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada reported on Facebook that the incident unfolded on "Reloj Street, between San Francisco and San Gerónimo," when a man was caught red-handed trying to steal an electric scooter. The local community managed to detain him before he could flee the scene.
"The individual was subdued by several people from the area and held down until the police arrived," detailed Mayeta Labrada, who also shared images of the suspect being restrained with ropes by the neighborhood residents.
The photos depict the suspect lying on the ground, bound by his feet, surrounded by vigilant residents who prevented his escape while awaiting the arrival of the National Revolutionary Police (PNR). According to the journalist, the incident took place "in broad daylight, just a short distance from Parque Céspedes."
The post elicited numerous reactions from online users, who collectively voiced concerns about the rising crime rates and what they perceive as inadequate police response. One comment lamented that "the police no longer conduct night patrols," while another criticized the nation's lax laws, stating, "the laws in this country are too lenient."
Some users expressed sadness over the deteriorating security situation in Santiago de Cuba: "My God, judging by the images, he seems to be an older gentleman... what's happening to Cuba," wrote one person. Others pointed out the lack of street lighting in areas such as Petrocasa, claiming that "the darkness is overwhelming and theft is rampant."
As of now, there have been no official announcements regarding the suspect's identity or legal status. The authorities have also remained silent on the incident.
This event follows another recent case in the El Salao neighborhood, also in Santiago de Cuba, where residents apprehended a suspected thief caught attempting to break into a home.
In both events, citizens took matters into their own hands to prevent thefts and held the suspects until the PNR arrived, highlighting a growing mistrust in the institutions responsible for maintaining order and safety in the city.
Community Response to Rising Crime in Santiago de Cuba
How did the residents manage to stop the scooter theft?
Residents quickly intervened and captured the suspect, restraining him until police arrived.
What were some of the public reactions to the theft attempt?
Many people expressed concerns about increasing crime and criticized the perceived lack of police action and lenient laws.
Have the authorities commented on this incident?
There have been no official comments from the authorities regarding the suspect's identity or legal status.