Residents of Camagüey are increasingly alarmed as a dangerous man continues to wield a knife in the city's center, yet the police remain inactive despite accumulating complaints.
Local influencer Nara Yack shared yet another alarming account in a video for La Hora de Cuba, detailing a terrifying encounter in Agramonte Park where the man menaced her family, including her seven-year-old niece.
The situation first gained public attention on June 29 when a young woman named Grett publicly accused the same man of harassment near the Puma store on República Street. He allegedly brandished a knife from his backpack. Despite Grett spending over five hours at the local PNR station, the police's response was limited to issuing a warning letter to the suspect.
Nara Yack recounted an incident from about five days before her video was posted. The man approached her group, which included her mother, niece, and friends, at the side of Agramonte Park. He initially requested money with a sign and, when refused, insulted the group and brandished his knife in a threatening manner.
"This is a real threat," emphasized Nara Yack. "We are dealing with someone armed with a knife, menacing anyone who doesn’t give him money."
The influencer noted that the man continued to linger in the park throughout the day and evening, causing children to run in fear whenever they spotted him. Her young niece recognized him in the video, calling him "the madman of the death park," and confirmed, "He hid a knife behind his hand, threatening people for money."
Nara Yack also shared the difficulties Grett's mother faced at the PNR station: "The police kept passing her around, telling her to go to the República unit, to wait in line, and that they couldn't attend to her immediately."
Public outrage is directed at this inaction. Social media users criticize the PNR for swiftly addressing political dissent while neglecting genuine violence threats against citizens.
"We shouldn't have to worry about alleyways, nighttime dangers, or deserted streets. Now we also have to worry about being threatened in the heart of the city by someone with a knife, targeting not only adults but children," lamented Nara Yack.
Numerous witnesses have confirmed the man's behavior, noting his presence in several busy areas: La Salsa, the Caribbean, the Casino, Maceo Street, Triana Bridge, and the Asociación Hermanos Saíz area. His pattern of targeting women who refuse to give him money is particularly concerning.
This case highlights a worsening security crisis in Cuba. The Cuban Citizens' Audit Observatory reported that in 2025, there were 2,833 documented offenses, a staggering 115% increase from 2024 and a 337% rise compared to 2023.
Camagüey has seen similar violence recently: In April 2026, a woman was critically injured in a stabbing near the Train Terminal, marking the second such attack in that area within a week.
Despite the growing number of testimonies, the police have yet to take action against the man, leaving locals to fear that authorities are "waiting for a tragedy" before intervening.
Addressing Safety Concerns in Camagüey
What actions have residents taken against the threatening individual in Camagüey?
Residents have publicly shared their experiences and concerns through social media and local media outlets, urging authorities to take action.
How has the local police responded to complaints about the man?
The police have issued only a warning letter to the suspect despite numerous complaints, leading to public frustration over their lack of effective action.
What is the broader impact of this issue on the community?
The ongoing threat has heightened fears among residents, particularly in busy areas where the individual is known to operate, and has contributed to a perception of increased insecurity in the region.