An enforcement operation by the Provincial Traffic Directorate in Las Tunas targeting traffic violations among motorcycles and electric mopeds has sparked a wave of criticism on social media. Citizens are voicing their concerns over both the hefty fines and the significant challenges in obtaining a driver's license, as highlighted in a video by journalist Orlando Cruz Vázquez from the Cuban News Channel.
Conducted jointly by the Ministry of the Interior and provincial transportation authorities, the operation penalizes infractions such as riding without a helmet, lacking a license, using modified exhausts that cause excessive noise, playing loud music, carrying three people on a motorcycle, or engaging in illegal races.
Offending vehicles are impounded for a duration ranging from one day to six months, depending on the severity of the violation. The fine is set at 500 pesos per day, and failure to pay on the specified date could result in the vehicle being seized the following day.
The steep daily fines have been a major point of contention. "Tell me, what worker earns 500 pesos a day? That's 15,000 pesos a month, which no worker earns. That's just wrong," commented a citizen on the video.
Challenges in Obtaining a Driver's License
Another significant issue raised is the near-impossibility of acquiring a driver's license, which many residents describe as an arduous process. "Getting one is harder than navigating a minefield," summarized one commentator. Another added, "Everything's fine, but the difficulty is in getting the license; they go to extremes. In the Buenavista area, there are no traffic signs left."
A third participant criticized the operation for not addressing the complexities and opportunities for obtaining a license, which are increasingly challenging. Several comments also pointed to inconsistencies in law enforcement.
Broader Social Concerns
"It's all well and good, but the first ones who need proper education are the officers themselves, who think that wearing a uniform gives them...," expressed one user. Another highlighted overlooked issues: "When will there be a crackdown on motorbike thefts?" A third was more direct: "The real indiscipline to tackle is within society: the assaults, the murders, and the frequent robberies."
Some demanded infrastructure improvements over penalties: "Fixing the roads is what needs to be done," wrote a resident. Another noted, "They let the monster grow, and now it's going to take a lot of work and money to eliminate it."
Support for Noise Control
Nevertheless, a segment of the community supports measures specifically targeting noise. "Teenagers ride motorcycles and e-bikes like lightning, without helmets, blasting music," complained one commenter. Another resident appreciated the regained peace in their neighborhood: "There are small children, newborns, elderly, and sick people who are greatly disturbed by those noises during rest hours."
A local driver featured in the video acknowledged adapting to the new regulations: "My motorbike had a resonator exhaust, so to meet the noise margins, we bought an original exhaust pipe so that the motorbike is quieter now."
This provincial context adds to the debate. Las Tunas recorded 101 verified thefts of motorcycles and e-bikes in the first half of 2025, making it the second most affected province in the nation. Nationally, motorcycles and mopeds were involved in over half of the traffic accidents reported that year.
In August, the Cuban government extended the validity of licenses expiring between 2026 and 2027 until 2028, acknowledging the system's difficulties but not addressing the core issue for those still unable to obtain their permits.
Key Issues and Solutions in Las Tunas Traffic Enforcement
What are the main infractions targeted by the Las Tunas traffic operation?
The operation targets violations such as riding without a helmet, lacking a license, using modified exhausts, playing loud music, carrying multiple passengers, and participating in illegal races.
Why are residents in Las Tunas critical of the traffic crackdown?
Residents criticize the operation due to the high fines and the difficulty of obtaining a driver's license, alongside perceived inconsistencies in law enforcement and a lack of focus on more pressing social issues.
How has the Cuban government responded to the challenges of obtaining a driver's license?
The Cuban government extended the validity of licenses expiring between 2026 and 2027 to 2028, acknowledging systemic difficulties but not solving the underlying problem for new applicants.