Cuban Tourist’s Green Card Extortion: A Sign of the Times?
A Cuban resident of the United States experienced a brazen act of extortion during a recent trip to Cuba. After losing his Green Card, he was met with a public demand for $4,000 in exchange for its return. This incident, initially brought to light on social media, has sparked public outrage and raised concerns about rising impunity within Cuba.
The saga unfolded on a Facebook marketplace page where an anonymous individual posted a photo of the Green Card (with the identification number obscured, adhering to platform rules), accompanied by a clear message: “I found this residency card, asking $4,000 USD to return it. If anyone knows the owner, write to me, 5 2732605, Havana.”
The Victim’s Response: “4,000, Keep Dreaming”
Leonardo Peña de la Cruz, the 38-year-old Green Card holder, responded with sarcasm to the extortion attempt. In a Facebook story, he quipped, “Send me a Zelle, that’s what the one who has my residency says. Haha, 4,000, keep dreaming.” His reaction, widely circulated among the Cuban community online, signaled a firm refusal to submit to the blackmail.
This event has broader implications, potentially reflecting a deeper crisis within Cuba. As noted by the news portal La Tijera, “This act reflects the high level of corruption and impunity on the island, where even an official US document is used as an object of public blackmail.”
How the Green Card Was Lost
Peña explained to Martí Noticias that the incident occurred while traveling back to his home province of Guantánamo. During a stop for food, thieves broke into his vehicle and stole his documents. He initially offered a $500 reward for the Green Card’s return, but the extortionist’s $4,000 demand quickly followed.
“That’s outrageous, crazy,” Peña stated. “No one is going to pay that amount. My advice is that no one should be extorted. Go directly to the United States Embassy, they will take care of you perfectly.”
Fortunately, the U.S. Embassy in Havana was able to assist Peña. “Today I left the embassy with all my papers in order. Tomorrow I should receive permission to travel,” he reported with relief. This highlights the importance of reporting lost or stolen documents immediately to the appropriate authorities.
Did you know? The U.S. Embassy provides emergency services for U.S. citizens, including assistance with replacing lost or stolen travel documents. It’s crucial to keep copies of important documents separate from the originals to expedite the replacement process.
Public Reactions and Advice: “Don’t Pay, Go to the Consulate”
Online, many commenters condemned the extortion attempt and offered advice to Peña. One user outlined the consular procedure for replacing a lost Green Card: “If I were the person who lost it, I would remind them that they should go to the United States Consulate in Havana and request a special document called a Boarding Foil (formerly known as a boarding letter). With this document, it temporarily replaces the Green Card and allows you to board a flight back to the USA.”
The commenter continued: “You must present: a valid Cuban passport, proof of legal residence (copies of the Green Card, Alien number, etc.), passport-type photos, and pay a fee (currently about $575 USD approximately). It is much better than giving $4000 USD to the advantageous, lazy, and opportunistic Cuban who found it. And by the way, report it to the police for being abusive!”
Collective Indignation and Questions for Authorities
The case has sparked widespread criticism, directed not only at the extortionist but also at the perceived culture of impunity that enables such acts. The incident has raised questions about the safety and security of travelers in Cuba, especially those of Cuban descent.
One commenter lamented, “He is not capable of saying: let me deliver it and wait for the owner to give him a gift, which I am sure he will give on his own. This is proof of why we are as we are and that not all Cubans, but many, profit from the pain and need of others.”
Another user called for justice: “Well, the Cuban authorities should take action on this. That can be considered theft and blackmail. For that reason, he must be arrested and convicted and at the same time the card recovered and delivered to its owner.”
Pro Tip: Never pay an extortionist. Contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate immediately to report the incident and begin the process of replacing your documents. Keep a record of all communication with the authorities and any related expenses.
FAQ About Lost or Stolen Green Cards While Abroad
Contact the U.S. Embassy in Havana immediately. They can provide guidance and assist with obtaining a Boarding Foil to return to the U.S.
Yes, with a Boarding Foil issued by the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
No, demanding money for the return of a found document is extortion, which is a crime.
You’ll typically need a valid Cuban passport, evidence of legal residency (Green Card copies, Alien number), passport photos, and payment for the application fee.
While the Boarding Foil has a fee (approximately $575), the actual Green Card replacement requires filing Form I-90 with USCIS and paying their filing fee, which can vary. Check the USCIS website for the most up-to-date fees.
What are your thoughts on this situation? Share your experiences or advice in the comments below. Explore other articles on travel safety and consular services for more helpful tips, such as “Staying Safe While Traveling Abroad” or “Understanding Consular Assistance.”
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