In a recent report aired by Canal Caribe, the persistent theft of fences and damage to public spaces in Havana and Holguín were highlighted, occurring brazenly in broad daylight without any apparent repercussions for those involved.
During a television news broadcast, state journalist Abdiel Bermúdez showcased images of fences being torn down at the Fructuoso Rodríguez secondary school in Vedado, which is now illegally occupied following the removal of security guards.
Local residents claimed they have repeatedly reported the issue but have received no effective response from the authorities.
The report featured a video captured at 2:00 p.m. in Holguín, showing a man dismantling and taking away a section of fencing from the Julio Grave de Peralta Park, also known as Parque de las Flores, situated across from the Telecristal TV station.
This footage, widely shared on social media, highlighted the lack of deterrence and the recurrence of the crime in the same location, as confirmed by the community.
Canal Caribe also shed light on the situation at Finca de los Monos in Havana's Cerro district, where officials reported the theft of approximately 26 fence panels over the past year, along with vandalism targeting electrical centers that exacerbate power outages.
Eyewitness accounts even mentioned the involvement of a state-licensed truck in one of the thefts.
Despite the news segment mentioning "shared responsibility" and urging citizen reports, those interviewed emphasized the inadequate police response, lack of protection for facilities, and ongoing economic strain on entities struggling to recover from constant damage.
Audience comments collected from social media pointed to a deeper social crisis characterized by ignored complaints, tolerated illegal occupations, absent police presence, and a prevailing sense of impunity.
For many, the official focus on vandalism sidesteps underlying issues such as the economic crisis, institutional decay, and lack of effective governance, which allow such incidents to persist openly.
Understanding the Rise in Vandalism and Crime in Cuba
What are the main areas affected by vandalism in Cuba?
The main areas affected include public spaces in Havana and Holguín, such as secondary schools and parks like Parque de las Flores.
How have local authorities responded to the vandalism reports?
Local authorities have been criticized for their ineffective response, with residents reporting multiple complaints that have gone unaddressed.
What underlying issues contribute to the increase in crime?
Underlying issues include the economic crisis, institutional decline, and lack of effective regulation and governance.