A police officer has faced criticism after issuing a fine to a taxi driver parked in the designated area for this vehicle in front of the Habana Libre hotel in El Vedado.
"The impunity of injustice. This uniformed officer is imposing a fine on a taxi driver of a tourism service vehicle for being parked in a zone exclusively for tourism taxis. What kind of parking lot did this 'order' agent miss during his training; or is he a self-appointed police officer?" questioned Reynaldo Cristobal Herrera Valdes in a Facebook post, who shared the incident.
Criticism and mockery of the police officer in question have not taken long to emerge in a context of insecurity, corruption, and police inefficiency that has frustrated the Cuban people.
"Surely just arrived from the East, from the factory of defective police," joked an internet user.
"Subject taken in the East to see the police in Havana is plastic arts with paper tearing, receiving a grade of MB, and clay figures with a B, which is already outstanding," another added humorously.
For other users, he is a corrupt police officer who, like many, is looking for some money to survive.
"What he wants is money," said a user
"Looking for money, all those officials are seeking their survival; they need to pay their salaries and then maintain their homes with fines and other expenses," another one agreed.
Some users took the opportunity to share their own experiences regarding this.
"My husband was taken to the station because he didn't want to give his documents since they wanted to fine him for crossing the dashed line, and to make matters worse, they accused him of disobedience. They're traffic police in the fields; the oxygen comes in through the soles of their feet, and as soon as they start walking, the trouble begins," stated an internet user.
Recently, a Cuban driver who reported a fine imposed by the police while driving two passengers in his almendrón in Havana was arrested and charged with contempt.
The man identified as Pablo Miguel, who had reported that he was fined 8,000 pesos for operating without a license, stated on his Facebook profile that he went to the police station at Zapata and C for a supposed interview.
However, upon arrival, they told him that he was accused of disobedience.
The driver had live-streamed on Facebook this Friday the moment when two PNR officers, a man and a woman, issued him a citation.
The young man protested and questioned why he couldn't pick up people in his private car.
In the midst of a deep economic crisis characterized by scarcity, inflation, and insufficient wages, the Cuban regime has collected more than one billion pesos in fines during the first three months of 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions about Fines for Taxi Drivers in Cuba and Police Corruption
Why is the Cuban police criticized for imposing fines on taxi drivers?
The Cuban police are criticized for imposing seemingly unjust fines and for the perception of corruption. In the mentioned case, a taxi driver was fined for being parked in a designated taxi area, which sparked criticism regarding the behavior of the involved officer. Furthermore, in a context of economic crisis and police corruption, many Cubans feel that these fines are more of a means to raise money than to enforce the law.
What is the situation regarding transportation and fines in Cuba?
The transportation situation in Cuba is critical, with a shortage of public transport and high prices in the private sector. This has led to increasing pressure on private taxi drivers and transporters from the police and inspectors, who impose fines for various infractions. In many cases, these fines are seen as a form of extortion in a context of economic need.
What impact do fines have on the Cuban economy?
Fines have become a significant source of revenue for the Cuban government. In the early months of 2025, over one billion pesos were collected in fines, reflecting the economic pressure and the regime's need for additional income. This approach has increased tension between the population and the authorities, especially in a context of economic crisis.
How does police corruption affect Cuban citizens?
Police corruption affects Cuban citizens by creating an atmosphere of distrust and insecurity. Many Cubans report that police officers misuse their power to extort citizens, particularly private transporters, instead of protecting the populace. This perception of corruption adds to the widespread frustration over the lack of effective public services and the repression of private initiatives.
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