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A young woman from Santiago passed away in the Burn Unit of the Juan Bruno Zayas Clinical Surgical Hospital in Santiago de Cuba, after several days of hospitalization due to severe burns covering 56% of her body and smoke inhalation that affected her respiratory system.
Independent journalist Yosmany Mayeta reported on Facebook that the tragic event shocked the community of Chivirico, in the coastal municipality of Guamá, where the victim, identified as Aldaris Hung Vega, a graduate in Spanish and Literature, resided.
According to the communicator's publication, the circumstances of his death are still not entirely clear, as there are two different accounts among neighbors and close ones regarding what happened.
Some have alleged that her partner locked her in a room and set it on fire, while others argue that the incident was not caused by the young man. However, he remains in custody as authorities investigate the case, Mayeta emphasized.
"There are various comments. Some say that it was his partner who set him on fire, but others insist that he is not to blame and is only being held for precautionary measures until the facts are clarified," commented a close friend of the deceased.
At the moment, the authorities have not released an official report confirming whether it was a femicide or a self-inflicted act.
However, her partner is in police custody while the investigation progresses.
In recent months, several cases of burn injuries and similar assaults have shocked Cuban society. One of the most devastating occurred in Santiago de Cuba, where an entire family was killed and their home was set on fire to cover up a robbery. The tragic event left three dead and generated outrage among the neighbors, who reported the insecurity in the area.
Another recent case is that of Isaira Despaigne, a 33-year-old mother in Santiago de Cuba, who died from severe burns. Witnesses stated that her partner set her on fire, although authorities have not officially confirmed the details of the crime. The tragedy left her three children orphaned and sparked strong calls for justice on social media.
Cases of extreme violence like this have also occurred in Havana. In May 2023, a 13-year-old girl was burned to death by a man who, following an argument with the victim's father, threw a flammable liquid and set the family's house on fire. The community demanded justice for the minor, whose case highlighted the increase in extreme violence in the country.
In addition to intentional attacks, accidental fires have also wreaked havoc. In September 2023, a young woman in Havana suffered severe burns and lost all her belongings when an electric scooter exploded inside her home. The proliferation of these incidents has been attributed to issues with lithium batteries, raising concerns about the safety of these vehicles in the country.
Frequently asked questions about violence and femicides in Santiago de Cuba
What is known about the death of Aldaris Hung Vega?
Aldaris Hung Vega passed away after suffering severe burns on his body, which affected 56% of his skin and respiratory pathways. The circumstances surrounding his death are controversial, with reports suggesting that his partner might have locked him in and set him on fire, although this has not been officially confirmed.
How is the economic crisis affecting security in Cuba?
The economic crisis in Cuba has intensified security issues, with a rise in theft and violence. The lack of resources and opportunities has led to desperate situations, increasing crimes in the most vulnerable areas.
What measures are the authorities taking in response to the violence in Santiago de Cuba?
The authorities have made some arrests related to murders in Santiago de Cuba, but the population criticizes the lack of effective measures. The community continues to demand stronger actions to improve safety, especially in light of the current wave of violence.
What is the situation of feminicides in Cuba?
In Cuba, femicide is not classified as a crime in the Penal Code. In 2023, 60 cases of murders of women for gender-related reasons were prosecuted. The lack of specific legal recognition for femicides complicates the recording and appropriate handling of these crimes.
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