In the municipality of Colón, located in Matanzas province, a Cuban mother and her young son found themselves stripped of nearly all their possessions following a burglary that occurred overnight between April 6 and 7. Despite filing a report with the Revolutionary National Police (PNR), no officials have visited their home to investigate days after the incident.
The ordeal was brought to light on Facebook by Carlos Alberto Sosa Fuentes, the child's father and former partner of the victim. He shared a firsthand account of the devastating impact of the theft and the subsequent lack of action from authorities.
"This isn't just about losing material possessions," Sosa Fuentes wrote. "It's the result of years of sacrifice, constant hard work, and enduring hardships with the hope of building a dignified home. All that was shattered in mere hours," he expressed, highlighting a situation that is becoming all too familiar in Cuba.
The source also noted, "Safety isn't merely a matter of statistics; it's a daily lived experience. And when there's no response, we're left feeling like we're moving backward."
The public revelation prompted numerous reactions from Cubans, who echoed a widespread sentiment: filing complaints often leads to no change. "Things don't get recovered 99% of the time... it feels like nobody cares," commented one user, voicing a frustration shared by many who have faced similar ordeals. Another individual described the situation as a "free-for-all," where criminals operate with impunity.
Some comments even suggested a deep-seated distrust in the institutions. "Here, the bandits work directly with the police," remarked another user, reflecting the level of distrust perceived by some citizens.
Amidst the outcry, there were also messages of support. "I just hope that the mother of your child and your child are okay," one user expressed, focusing on the human impact of the incident, beyond the material loss.
Others pointed out that the problem of insecurity is not unique to Colón. "It's terrible in Cárdenas, and nothing is done," warned another commenter, indicating that the issue stretches to other municipalities as well.
The absence of a police response is not an isolated case. With 20% of PNR officers having left the force, many communities are left virtually unprotected against the rise in crime.
The provincial context exacerbates the situation further. In 2025, Matanzas was reported as the province with the highest crime rate in the country, a stark contrast to the scant institutional presence available to assist victims.
Nationally, the figures are equally alarming. According to official data, Cuba witnessed 2,833 verified crimes in 2025, marking a 115% increase compared to previous years. Robberies topped the statistics with 1,536 incidents, establishing them as the most prevalent crime nationwide.
In rural areas, criminal activities have become bolder. Recently, an armed group of seven hooded individuals on horseback assaulted a cooperative, highlighting the decline in public safety across various regions of the country.
For the mother in Colón, the theft was not just a loss of belongings but a stark reminder of the State's absence when it is most needed.
Understanding Crime and Safety Challenges in Cuba
What happened to the mother and son in Matanzas?
They were victims of a burglary that left them without most of their possessions, and despite reporting the crime, they have not received any response from the authorities.
How did the public react to the burglary in Colón?
The incident sparked numerous online reactions, with many expressing frustration over the ineffectiveness of filing complaints and a general sense of insecurity.
What are the crime statistics for Cuba in 2025?
Cuba recorded 2,833 verified crimes in 2025, a 115% increase from previous years, with robberies being the most common offense.