Authorities have apprehended three individuals suspected of stealing 28 solar panels designated for a water pumping system in the Los Arabos municipality of Matanzas. So far, officials report the recovery of 21 panels.
The pro-government platform, Con Todos La Victoria, announced on Thursday that the theft transpired in the San Pedro de Mayabón area. The culprits reportedly forced entry into the warehouse of the UEB Pecuaria "General Gusev" to seize the panels.
According to the report, the solar panels were intended for the entity's water pumping system.
The source identified Osmany Benítez Ortiz and Yaisander Roque Morejón as the alleged perpetrators of the theft, while José Gilberto Chávez was named as the suspected receiver of the stolen goods.
As per the report, 21 out of the 28 stolen solar panels were discovered at Chávez's residence. However, investigations are ongoing to locate the remaining seven, whose whereabouts remain unknown.
This incident is merely the latest in a string of thefts recorded by the regime in Matanzas and other provinces.
Escalating Theft Incidents in Cuba
For instance, back in December 2024, eight thefts involving components of solar pumping systems were reported within a span of less than six months in Las Tunas. Municipalities such as Puerto Padre, Colombia, Jobabo, and Majibacoa were affected, leaving several communities without the intended service of the equipment.
An even more violent case occurred this past May in Holguín, where four men assaulted and tied up a security guard at a pumping station to steal 32 solar panels. The authorities managed to recover 29 panels and arrest the four alleged assailants.
Matanzas has not been immune to this surge in criminal activity. In August, residents of Bolondrón reported a rising wave of thefts, which included not only solar panels but also EcoFlow units, gas cylinders, turbines, and water tanks—items that are challenging to replace amidst the ongoing economic crisis.
Understanding the Rise in Solar Panel Thefts in Cuba
What led to the arrest of the three individuals in Matanzas?
The three individuals were arrested due to their suspected involvement in the theft of 28 solar panels meant for a water pumping system in Matanzas. Authorities have recovered 21 of these panels so far.
How prevalent are solar panel thefts in Cuba?
Solar panel thefts have become increasingly common in Cuba, with multiple incidents reported in various provinces, including Matanzas and Las Tunas. These thefts have disrupted essential services in affected communities.
What actions have been taken to address these thefts?
Authorities have been actively investigating and making arrests related to these thefts. In some cases, they have successfully recovered stolen panels and detained suspects involved in the crimes.