The Crespo family from Guáimaro, Camagüey, has reported the theft of the wrought iron gate that once safeguarded their family vault at the local cemetery. This marks the third theft the family has endured in 2026.
According to a statement sent to CiberCuba by the Crespo family, the cemetery is in a state of neglect and lacks any form of security.
"It's essentially an abandoned cemetery, devoid of guards or any security measures, allowing such incidents to occur without accountability," they expressed.
This vault theft is just one of several the family has faced this year, which also includes the theft of an electric scooter and construction materials from their home. Despite reporting these incidents to authorities, the family claims they have yet to receive an effective response.
In their message to CiberCuba, the family mentioned escalating their complaint to the Council of State and various provincial and national agencies, including the authorities of Communal Services.
"We feel largely neglected by the Communal Services authorities, the government, and the responsible institutions," they stated.
Photos shared with the outlet reveal the family vault and signs of deterioration among funeral structures, such as peeling paint, cracks, and overgrown vegetation.
Widespread Cemetery Neglect in Cuba
This incident is part of a broader pattern of theft, vandalism, and neglect reported in Cuban cemeteries over recent years.
In June, a family reported the desecration of niches in the Cementerio de Colón in Havana, where they discovered broken covers, exposed skeletal remains, and stolen marble, bronze, and iron pieces. A month prior, Pinar del Río residents warned of the theft of planters and metal crucifixes, and in August, there was a report of human remains stolen from the Kilo 12 cemetery in Sancti Spíritus.
Camagüey has not been immune to cemetery deterioration. In November 2025, images circulated showing coffins in hallways and exposed human remains at the city's General Cemetery. Following public criticism, the Communal Services Company attempted to justify the site's conditions. Months later, artist Camila Lobón's family reported their family pantheon was found empty, with the remains missing.
Growing Crime Concerns in Cuba
Thefts are part of a broader security issue. The Cuban Citizen Audit Observatory recorded 2,833 crimes in Cuba during 2025, marking a 115% increase from the previous year, with thefts leading the statistics at 1,536 cases.
In early September, the U.S. Embassy in Havana also warned of a widespread increase in crime across Cuba, highlighting vehicle-related thefts.
For the Crespo family, the immediate concern is accountability for the incident involving their family vault, where their relatives rest.
"Above all, we want to raise awareness about these occurrences and ensure someone takes responsibility," they concluded.
Understanding Cemetery Theft in Cuba
Why are Cuban cemeteries vulnerable to theft?
Cuban cemeteries often lack adequate security measures and maintenance, making them easy targets for theft and vandalism.
What actions have been taken to address cemetery thefts?
Families have reported incidents to local authorities and escalated complaints to national bodies, but many report inadequate responses.
How has crime changed in Cuba recently?
Crime in Cuba has increased significantly, with a 115% rise in reported crimes in 2025 compared to the previous year, particularly in thefts.