The Traffic Directorate in Guantánamo has penalized and issued warnings to 21 drivers at the city's vehicle impound center. This action comes as a response to public outcries over illegal street racing, loud noise disturbances, and other traffic violations that have been disturbing residents in various areas of the province.
This information was shared on Friday by "Guantánamo y su Verdad," a pro-government Facebook page linked to the Ministry of the Interior. The page reported conducting an independent investigation following numerous complaints from the population regarding these issues.
The crackdown extended beyond just the vehicle impound lot. It included checks on public transport drivers, particularly buses, at central city gathering points and ramped-up breathalyzer tests at critical locations.
According to the source, illegal racing on highways and excessive noise are among the issues being addressed, with measures being applied to varying degrees across all municipalities in the province.
"Each complaint stems from a genuine concern: crossing the street without fear, ensuring safe travel, or being able to rest at home without disruptive noises disturbing the peace of the neighborhood. Above all, preventing recklessness from claiming a life," the pro-government page emphasized.
This operation follows an incident where two teenagers, aged 16 and 17, were injured in an accident allegedly linked to an illegal motorcycle race in Tortuguilla, San Antonio del Sur municipality.
The injured teens received treatment at the local clinic and were transferred to the Pediatric Hospital in Guantánamo. Villa Casalbore denied organizing the race but acknowledged that such events frequently occur on that road.
This is not the first time provincial authorities have taken action against these violations. Since July, the government has been cracking down on resonators and clandestine racing across several municipalities, including Manuel Tames, with vehicle impoundment fees set at 1,000 Cuban pesos per day.
In August, traffic officials in Las Tunas announced stricter measures against motorbike and electric moped riders who play loud music, participate in illegal races, or violate traffic rules, including vehicle confiscation for unpaid fines.
In the same month, authorities in Havana seized loudspeakers from bicitaxi drivers and warned of legal action against repeat offenders. A recent operation in Central Havana resulted in 22 fines and the confiscation of nearly 1.5 million pesos.
In 2025, Cuba recorded 7,538 traffic accidents with 750 fatalities, marking a roughly 20% increase from the previous year. Motorcycles, mopeds, and pedestrians were involved in 63% of these incidents, and 31% of drivers in these accidents did not possess a valid license.
Understanding Traffic Violations in Guantánamo
What prompted the recent crackdown on traffic violations in Guantánamo?
The recent crackdown was prompted by citizen complaints about illegal street racing, loud noises, and other traffic violations disturbing residents in various areas.
What measures are being taken by traffic authorities in Guantánamo?
Authorities are penalizing drivers, conducting checks on public transport, and increasing breathalyzer tests at critical points to address illegal racing and noise violations.
How has the situation affected Guantánamo's residents?
Residents have raised concerns about safety and peace, fearing the impact of reckless driving and noise on their daily lives and neighborhood tranquility.