Authorities in Centro, Tabasco, Mexico, have apprehended a Cuban national along with a Mexican citizen during a drug surveillance operation conducted by the State Guard and the Secretariat of Security and Citizen Protection (SSPC).
As reported by local news outlet Grupo VX, the arrests took place on July 23 on Noé de la Flor Casanova street in the 18 de Marzo neighborhood. This was part of the routine patrols conducted by state authorities to maintain security in the area.
The individuals taken into custody have been identified as Donel "N," a 43-year-old Cuban, and Gaspar Torres Hernández, a 40-year-old Mexican.
During the search, officers confiscated multiple doses of a substance resembling marijuana, as well as materials appearing to be methamphetamine (crystal) and crack cocaine.
The packaging for the latter two drugs bore a yellow emblem with the phrase "Plata o plomo," a term famously linked to Colombian drug trafficking and often used by criminal organizations to mark shipments or convey threats.
Additionally, the authorities seized a burgundy and black school backpack and a red waist bag from the suspects.
Both men have been handed over to the Public Ministry, which will decide on their legal status as investigations continue.
This incident is part of a broader pattern of Cuban nationals being arrested in Tabasco for alleged drug-related offenses in recent months.
Earlier this year, in January, the SSPC detained Yosvany "N," known as "Sosa," a 43-year-old Cuban, on Constitución Avenue in Villahermosa, where he was found with marijuana doses.
In December 2025, another Cuban, Daniel "N," aged 52, was arrested alongside a Venezuelan, also for suspected drug offenses in the same region.
This trend extends beyond Tabasco; in June, seven Cubans were arrested with a drug shipment in Holbox, Quintana Roo, containing marijuana, cocaine, crack, and ecstasy.
In April, Julio Yidier "N," alias "El Tilín," was captured in Mexico City, accused of leading a narcotics distribution ring.
Understanding the Cuban Drug Arrests in Mexico
What drugs were found during the Tabasco operation?
The authorities discovered substances resembling marijuana, methamphetamine (crystal), and crack cocaine during the operation.
What does "Plata o plomo" imply in drug trafficking?
"Plata o plomo," translating to "silver or lead," is a phrase associated with Colombian drug cartels, symbolizing the choice between bribery or violence.
Are there other instances of Cubans being detained in Mexico for drug offenses?
Yes, there have been multiple instances, including arrests in Villahermosa, Holbox, and Mexico City, involving Cuban nationals linked to drug crimes.