Customs officials in Cuba recently uncovered methamphetamine concealed within microwave popcorn packages at Havana's José Martí International Airport. This marks the latest drug interception operation in the island's capital.
Wiliam Pérez González, the First Deputy Head of the General Customs of the Republic, shared details of the discovery on his X account, where he also posted images of the seized items.
"Another methamphetamine detection at Havana Airport, with the drug hidden in several popcorn packages inside luggage," Pérez González reported.
Images reveal three kraft paper bags of microwave popcorn with instructions in both Spanish and English, one of them opened to expose a crystalline white substance.
A detection dog, equipped with a black harness, is seen in the photos examining the trays with the seized packages in the customs control area. A colorimetric chemical test confirmed the presence of methamphetamine.
Increased Vigilance in Drug Interception
This operation was carried out in collaboration with the Customs and the Specialized Anti-Drug Border Unit, whose "professionalism and integration" were praised by Pérez González.
This incident is at least the seventh drug interception at Havana airport in 2026, highlighting a growing trend of smuggling drugs hidden in everyday food items.
On April 20, authorities discovered methamphetamine concealed within a package of Verde Valle brand rice at the same airport.
The following day, April 21, authorities seized 19 sheets laced with synthetic cannabinoids hidden in cereal shipped from the United States, preventing the circulation of 22,800 doses of a substance 50 to 100 times stronger than marijuana.
In January 2026, officials had already confiscated marijuana hidden in cereal and instant drink packets at the same airport.
Creative Smuggling Tactics
Just five days before the popcorn discovery, on May 3, 48 narcotic capsules were found inside a passenger's body at Havana airport.
The strategy of concealing drugs in well-known food brands appears to be a deliberate effort to exploit the innocent appearance of widely consumed products.
New customs decrees came into effect on April 22 in Cuba, tightening border controls. Between 2024 and December 2025, 72 drug trafficking operations from 11 different countries were thwarted.
Frequently Asked Questions on Drug Smuggling in Cuba
How are drugs commonly smuggled into Cuba?
Drugs are frequently concealed in everyday food items like popcorn, cereal, or rice, exploiting their mundane appearance to avoid detection.
What measures has Cuba implemented to combat drug trafficking?
Cuba has introduced stricter customs decrees to enhance border controls and has coordinated efforts between customs and specialized anti-drug units to intercept smuggling attempts.