Cuba Shot Dead Four People on US-Registered Speedboat After Armed Confrontation Near Coast
Cuba shot dead four people on a US-registered speedboat following an armed confrontation in waters near the country’s northern coast, according to an official statement released by Cuban authorities.
The incident took place close to an island in Villa Clara province when border guards detected a Florida-registered vessel entering Cuban territorial waters. Authorities said officers approached the speedboat to verify its identity, but individuals on board allegedly opened fire, triggering an exchange.
As a result of the confrontation, four people aboard the vessel were killed while six others sustained injuries. Cuban officials stated that the injured were taken into custody and provided medical assistance. A border guard officer was also reported wounded during the exchange.
According to the Interior Ministry, weapons including handguns, rifles and other tactical equipment were recovered from the speedboat. Officials alleged that the group intended to carry out a hostile operation after entering Cuban waters without authorization. Some of the individuals were said to have prior criminal records.
Cuban authorities confirmed that investigations are ongoing to determine the full circumstances of the incident. An additional suspect was reportedly detained separately in connection with the alleged plot.
The United States has acknowledged the situation and indicated that it is conducting its own review of the events. US officials described the confrontation at sea as unusual and said they would independently assess the facts surrounding the case.
The shooting comes at a time of heightened diplomatic tensions between Washington and Havana, adding further strain to an already complex relationship between the two countries.
Cuba maintains that the vessel violated its territorial waters and that border guards responded after coming under fire. Further details are expected as both sides continue their respective investigations.
