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Lourdes Elena, the guardian of a cat named Lulita, reported that three residents of her building in Mayarí, Holguín province, allegedly threw the animal from a third-floor balcony and, after the fall, beat it and set a dog on it until it caused its death.
In a post in the Facebook group “Revolico Mayarí”, the young woman recounted the harrowing details of the crime that led to the kitten's death.
The animal's caretaker revealed that the alleged perpetrators of the heinous act were the citizens Mabel Rodríguez, Manolo Gutiérrez, and Alexander Delgado, the latter identified as the president of the CDR.
His report was shared on the Facebook profiles of the network Animal Welfare Cuba (BAC) in Holguín and Havana, along with photos of the three individuals responsible for the crime.
“Two residents confirm the fall and the aggression; photographs show injuries consistent with impact and physical abuse,” emphasized the publication from BAC-Habana.
According to BAC, it submitted the testimonies and images to the National Revolutionary Police (PNR) and the Provincial Delegation of Animal Health, “requesting the opening of a case for cruelty resulting in death, under Decree-Law 31, article 9.”
So far, there has been no official statement regarding the case.
At the same time, the members of that animal rights community urged individuals who witnessed the incident or have videos, photos, or statements "that could help clarify the case" to send them to the email address prensa.bacanos@gmail.com.
"Your information could be crucial for those responsible to face the penalties outlined by law," emphasized BAC. They also committed "to keeping the community informed about any developments in the process."
Community reaction
The case has generated a strong reaction on social media, with numerous comments expressing concern about the lack of stricter laws in Cuba to protect animals.
Esteban Vázquez expressed his frustration by saying, "Where is the animal protection law here in Cuba? It is nothing more than another facade among many; file a complaint about this case, but I'm sure they will only impose a small fine."
In the opinion of María Victoria Durán Casal, "the cruelty towards animals has surpassed all limits for a society that considers itself humane. A radical change is necessary in the way we address these acts. The action that led to the death of this defenseless animal cannot be punished with a mere fine. These individuals are very sick and pose a danger to others. They should be confined in jail or a psychiatric hospital."
Mara Leyva expressed that the case "should not be dealt with solely as animal cruelty; those involved should also be prosecuted for psychological abuse towards a human being. I make this clarification for those who think 'it's just an animal.' If you believe that harm to an animal deserves no more than a fine, then consider the damage inflicted on her caregiver, who had to witness her cat die miserably."
In Omi Delgado's opinion, "a real law is needed, not the infamous current pretense. Since one pays the fine and then takes it out on any other defenseless little angel. Those who don't want an animal cannot possibly care for a human being. The level of general devaluation that exists is truly concerning."
Jeanne Yong emphasized the need for justice and a change in legislation. “Justice now. What kind of person is the president of the CDR? What will remain for others if the president of the CDR is an animal murderer? Shared, SOS, and let the full weight of the law fall on them. I continue to insist that we need harsher penalties and stronger laws. Given what is happening, we must demand a change in animal welfare laws.”
Although Cuba has had the Animal Welfare Decree-Law 31 since April 2021, stray species remain unprotected, reflecting the structural resource and organizational shortages within the national veterinary system.
The conditions in which the specimens are found have also been reported in several zoos across the country.
While denouncing impunity, neglect, and abuse, animal protectors demand a truly effective law that surpasses the current ineffective decree-law.
One of the cases that have outraged occurred at the beginning of April when an individual offered a live owl for 20,000 pesos in a Facebook group in Havana.
A shocking event emerged earlier: a woman in Gibara discovered thieves cooking her stolen cat.
Another revealing situation was exposed last March when activist Yenney Caballero publicly denounced the Mascolive veterinary clinic for refusing to perform surgery on a critically ill cat.
Frequently Asked Questions about Animal Abuse in Cuba and Decree-Law 31
What is the reported animal abuse case in Mayarí?
In Mayarí, three residents of a building allegedly threw a cat from a balcony and then beat her to death. The case has been reported by the cat's guardian, Lourdes Elena, and by the Animal Welfare network in Cuba (BAC), who have requested the opening of an investigation for cruelty resulting in death.
What is the current status of the Animal Welfare Law in Cuba?
The Animal Welfare Law in Cuba, approved in 2021, is considered ineffective by many activists and citizens. Despite its existence, cases of animal abuse continue to be reported with little or no significant consequences for the offenders, which has raised concerns about its enforcement and effectiveness.
What actions are being taken to improve animal protection in Cuba?
Organizations and activists are pushing for stronger sanctions and the enforcement of the Animal Welfare Act. They are using social media to highlight cases of abuse and demand more effective actions from the authorities. Additionally, there is a call to include animal abuse in the Cuban Penal Code to ensure harsher penalties.
What impact does the economic crisis have on animal abuse in Cuba?
The economic crisis in Cuba has exacerbated animal abuse, as some people resort to sacrificing animals for consumption due to food scarcity. This, along with the lack of resources and institutional indifference, has left many animals unprotected and vulnerable to violence.
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