An exemplary oral trial in a drug case was held in the province of Holguin. Corresponding to Case 2 of 2026, filed with the Third Criminal Court. An example of Cuba’s zero-tolerance drug policy.
The case, linked to Preparatory Phase File 567 of 2025 from the Territorial Criminal Investigation Unit III of Banes. Demonstrated that the accused had been committing crimes related to these substances for several years. This prompted monitoring and surveillance by the National Anti-Drug Directorate. Of the municipality in Investigative Process File 385 of 2025, the Jagüeyes Case.
Yeisys González Escalona, vice president of the Holguin Provincial People’s Court, informed the Cuban News Agency (CNA) that the investigation determined the cultivation and sale of Cannabis sativa L. ssp. Indica. Commonly known as marijuana, in the Jagüeyes de Puerto Rico area of the municipality of Banes.
Thus, on the morning of May 6th, 2025, a police operation was carried out and the accused was captured near the plantation. Also where he was hiding in the undergrowth. An area delimited by a fence of wooden poles and wire, the official explained.
She reported that at that time, 429 plants, ranging in height from 14 to 77 centimeters. With a total net weight of 2,420 grams, corresponding to the Cannabis Sativa L. ssp. Indica species, were seized. In addition to 11,280 Cuban pesos.
Cannabis sativa indica, commonly known as marijuana. It is classified as a hallucinogenic psychotropic substance and can cause motivational syndrome and psychological dependence. Therefore, it is subject to international control under the 1961 Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs. Specifically Schedules I and IV, of which Cuba is a signatory.
For this reason, the defendant was convicted of drug trafficking. As defined in Article 235.1 d). 2 g) of Law 151 of 2022 of the current Penal Code. Which carries a sentence of 10 to 30 years’ imprisonment. Given the recidivism stipulated in Article 82.1.3 a), the imposed sentence was 14 years’ imprisonment, González stated.
Additionally, the following penalties were applied: the suspension of rights as stipulated in Article 42.1 a), b), c), and d). A 14-year ban on leaving the national territory as per Article 59.1. With the confiscation of 11,280 pesos as per Article 52.1. All under Law 151 of 2022 of the current Penal Code.
The judicial proceedings were conducted with full respect for the defendant’s legal and procedural guarantees. As established by current legislation in the country.
With information from the Cuban News Agency
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