A Cuban man has been taken into custody after allegedly stealing dielectric oil from a transformer in Jagüey Grande, Matanzas Province, causing a blackout that affected over 4,400 homes and disrupted essential services, including a hospital and a clinic.
The suspect, identified as José Antonio Dorticós Zamora, reportedly siphoned off several liters of the oil from an electrical substation located near a forest nursery, adjacent to the town's highway exit.
Impact of the Theft on Local Services
According to the state-run Facebook page "Con Todos la Victoria," the theft occurred during the early morning hours when unknown individuals broke into the 33 KV substation at the forest nursery, forced open the transformer, and took several liters of dielectric oil, a vital component for the equipment's operation.
The incident led to a power outage affecting "4,429 homes, as well as the local hospital, clinic, and hygiene center," which the official source described as an "outrageous act."
Emergency Response to Prevent Further Disruptions
The scale of the blackout prompted emergency procedures to prevent more severe disruptions to basic services. Electric system technicians worked tirelessly to restore power, managing a temporary fix by connecting to another circuit. However, this solution only provided a minimal, temporary supply, insufficient to meet the area's total demand.
Evidence and Confession of the Accused
Investigations led authorities to the suspect's residence, where incriminating evidence was found, including clothing and footwear stained with the stolen oil. The official narrative stated, "The man had rubber boots and clothing stained with the stolen oil at home, leading to a quick confession."
This confession was crucial in advancing the legal proceedings. The accused now faces justice for what has been described as a brazen act, with his fate to be decided in court.
The Critical Role of Dielectric Oil in Transformers
Dielectric oil plays a crucial role in electrical transformers, acting as a coolant and preventing overheating. Without it, transformers are rendered virtually useless and susceptible to failures that could result in irreparable damage or even fires.
A Crime Classified as Sabotage
Authorities have classified the act as sabotage, as outlined in Article 125 of Cuba’s Penal Code, effective since May 2022. This law prescribes sentences ranging from seven to fifteen years for those who damage or interfere with infrastructure essential for energy supply.
Severe penalties are reserved for cases with serious consequences or where dangerous methods are used, potentially leading to sentences up to 30 years, life imprisonment, or even capital punishment, as recent interpretations by the People’s Supreme Court suggest.
The official stance maintains a zero-tolerance policy: "Against crime, illegalities, and social indiscipline, ZERO TOLERANCE!" concludes the state publication.
Rising Oil Theft Amid Energy Crisis
This incident is part of a growing trend across Cuba in recent weeks, where the theft of dielectric oil from transformers exacerbates the already dire electricity crisis in Matanzas. In March 2026, the area experienced up to 47 hours and 30 minutes of consecutive power outages.
The stolen oil is sold on the black market for as much as 500 Cuban pesos per liter, used as tractor fuel or industrial lubricant. Engineer Onasis Trujillo from the Electrical Union warned, "Removing oil from transformers often damages the equipment, as this oil is part of the transformer's insulation and causes final equipment failure."
Sabotage is defined under Article 125 of Law No. 151, the Cuban Penal Code, imposing sentences of seven to 15 years for tampering with energy infrastructure. In aggravated cases, penalties can escalate to life imprisonment or capital punishment.
Official data indicate that 100% of those prosecuted for electrical sabotage from January 2025 to the first quarter of 2026 received sentences exceeding 10 years.
This phenomenon is not confined to Matanzas: last Saturday, three men were tried for sabotage in Jatibonico, Sancti Spíritus, after stealing oil from a substation; on April 19, the theft of 600 liters in Amancio, Las Tunas, left 40% of the municipality without power; and on April 11, a man died and another was injured in Santiago de Cuba during a similar attempt.
Last Saturday, Prime Minister Manuel Marrero called for harsh measures against dielectric oil theft, labeling it a "high sensitivity" crime.
Understanding the Impact of Oil Theft on Cuba's Energy Crisis
What are the consequences of stealing dielectric oil from transformers?
Stealing dielectric oil from transformers can lead to power outages, damage the transformers beyond repair, and pose a risk of fires, severely affecting local communities and essential services.
How is oil theft classified under Cuban law?
Oil theft is classified as sabotage under Article 125 of Cuba's Penal Code, with penalties ranging from seven to fifteen years in prison, and potentially more severe punishments for aggravated cases.
What is the current energy crisis situation in Matanzas, Cuba?
Matanzas is experiencing a severe energy crisis, with recent incidents leading to prolonged power outages, exacerbated by the theft of dielectric oil from transformers.