This week, local authorities in Camagüey unveiled a concerning report on criminal activities in the city during the first half of the year. The data reveals more than 600 recorded offenses, with 40% classified as serious crimes.
According to details shared on the Facebook page of Radio Cadena Agramonte, a significant portion of these crimes involves burglary, offenses against individuals, and various forms of cattle theft.
In response, the local Crime Response Team has ramped up night patrols to oversee worker and administrative guards in workplaces and communities throughout the province.
The public reaction to the report was swift and largely critical.
Many residents expressed skepticism about the accuracy of the official statistics. "Only 600 crimes in 180 days? There must be an error in the reported numbers or a significant underreporting of criminal activity," commented one resident of Camagüey.
Others questioned the effectiveness of fines as a tool against serious offenses. "A fine is not suitable for handling burglary or any crime against a person's physical integrity. The National Assembly should conduct a comparative study on their use and the rise of these crimes since their implementation," remarked a concerned citizen.
The initiative to bolster worker guards also faced opposition. "Worker and administrative guards? It's just more burden on workers who endure 20-hour power outages. The focus should be on the PNR's efforts," another resident suggested.
One comment highlighted power outages as a complicating factor: "The first issue is constant darkness, with circuits left without power all night; the second is the lack of patrol services," summarized another local.
"Camagüey is turning into the wild west of Cuba. Crime is rampant, with young people on motorbikes, their faces covered," described a city resident.
The most common demand was for the National Revolutionary Police to take charge of combating crime, rather than relying on workers. "I don't believe worker guards can effectively address crime; there have already been custodial deaths in various places in Cuba. It's the responsibility of law enforcement, who have the resources and authority to do so," argued another neighbor.
This municipal report comes amid a series of violent incidents that have recently shaken the province. A few days ago, a motorcycle and an electric bicycle were stolen from the El Sereno parking lot, allegedly with the complicity of the attendant on duty.
Additionally, a young man was found dead with signs of violence in Vertientes, with robbery of money and horses suspected as the motive.
Just yesterday, a gruesome discovery stunned Camagüey when children found a charred and decapitated body behind the provincial hospital Manuel Ascunce Domenech's hemodialysis area. In none of these cases have the authorities issued any public statements.
The local scene mirrors a national trend documented by independent organizations. In 2025, the Cuban Citizen Audit Observatory verified 2,833 crimes across Cuba, marking a 115% increase from 2024, with thefts topping the list.
Meanwhile, the organization Cubalex labeled July as the most violent month since it began monitoring, recording 37 homicides.
Understanding Camagüey's Crime Surge
What are the main types of crimes reported in Camagüey?
The main types of crimes reported include burglary, offenses against individuals, and cattle theft.
How have residents reacted to the crime report?
Residents have reacted mainly with skepticism and criticism, questioning the accuracy of the statistics and the effectiveness of current measures.
What steps are being taken to address the crime wave in Camagüey?
The local Crime Response Team has increased night patrols to oversee worker and administrative guards, although this measure has met with criticism.