This week, two Cuban nationals were taken into custody for thefts allegedly committed in the historic center of Rome, according to local media reports.
During operations led by the Carabinieri Central Company of Rome, aimed at curbing urban crime ahead of the year-end festivities, two Cuban men were apprehended for separate theft incidents involving a tourist and a store.
One of the suspects, a 30-year-old, was caught by the Carabinieri from the Aventino Station in Rome. He allegedly stole a tourist's bag while the victim was dining at a local restaurant. Officers managed to capture him before he could flee the scene.
The second suspect, aged 20, was detained by the Carabinieri from the San Lorenzo in Lucina Station right after he reportedly stole luxury clothing items from a store on Via del Corso.
The identities of the arrested individuals have not been disclosed by authorities.
In the broader police crackdown across Rome's historic center and surrounding areas, several other individuals from various countries were also detained for theft or drug-related offenses. Police reports highlighted a focus on restaurants with outdoor seating, which often attract "criminals looking for distracted or careless victims."
Earlier this month, media outlets in Milan reported another crime involving a Cuban citizen. This 29-year-old was arrested after allegedly robbing a 75-year-old man on an M3 train at the San Babila station on December 2, as reported by MilanoToday.
The suspect took advantage of the moment when the elderly man was assisting his wife off the train, seizing the opportunity to open the man's bag and steal a wallet containing documents and approximately 65 euros.
However, as the crime unfolded, an officer from the Mobile Brigade's sixth anti-pickpocketing section observed and immediately arrested the suspect.
In recent years, numerous thefts involving Cubans have been reported in various Italian cities. Additionally, Cuban nationals have been arrested for more severe crimes, including drug trafficking and murder.
In May, a 27-year-old Cuban was arrested on the outskirts of Milan after allegedly stabbing a 13-year-old Egyptian boy during a supposed drug transaction. The boy succumbed to his injuries days after the attack.
Understanding Crime Incidents Involving Cuban Nationals in Italy
What crimes were the Cuban nationals in Rome accused of?
The Cuban nationals in Rome were accused of theft, specifically stealing from a tourist and a luxury store.
How did authorities respond to the thefts in Rome?
Authorities conducted operations to prevent urban crime and successfully apprehended the suspects involved in the thefts.
Have there been other incidents involving Cuban nationals in Italy?
Yes, there have been numerous reports of thefts and more serious crimes such as drug trafficking and murder involving Cuban nationals in Italy.