The General Customs of the Republic (AGR) detected in the province of Holguín three hidden Starlink devices inside three televisions sent from the United States, amid the strengthening of government measures to control access to satellite internet in Cuba.
The first deputy chief of the AGR, Wiliam Pérez González, confirmed this on Sunday through a post on the social network X, where he stated that the interception occurred thanks to the "skill and preparation" of the customs forces.
He pointed out that "strict measures were implemented," although he did not provide further details on the matter.
This new detection occurs amid the offensive by the Cuban regime against the use of Starlink, a high-speed satellite internet service that bypasses state control.
Starlink, developed by the American company SpaceX, founded by the billionaire Elon Musk, allows its users to connect from remote areas without relying on traditional terrestrial infrastructure.
In the case of Cuba, its potential represents a way to circumvent the controlled connection exclusively managed by the state telecommunications monopoly ETECSA, which has provoked the regime's rejection and response, as it maintains strict restrictions on free and uncensored access to the internet.
For months, Havana has been warning about the importation and use of these devices, labeling them as illegal and “dangerous” for the control of the radio spectrum, while also cautioning that the installation and use of Starlink in Cuba without authorization is a crime.
However, the reality on the ground is very different: some have access to this service that, in theory, should not operate on the island, as evidenced by an investigation by the alternative media el TOQUE.
The prices of equipment in the Cuban informal market range between 1,300 and 1,800 dollars, amounts that represent more than 500,000 Cuban pesos (CUP), according to the current exchange rate of foreign currencies in the informal market.
Cuban customs authorities have carried out multiple seizures of this type of equipment, especially at José Martí International Airport in Havana. In one of the most recent operations, 85 routers were confiscated as part of the crackdown on the entry of antennas and signal repeaters that Cubans seek to use to access the internet through alternative means.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Use of Starlink in Cuba
Why does the Cuban government oppose the use of Starlink?
The Cuban government opposes the use of Starlink because it threatens its control over internet access. Starlink provides high-speed satellite internet access, allowing Cubans to bypass the state monopoly of ETECSA on telecommunications. This technology would evade censorship and control by the Cuban government, leading authorities to label its use as illegal and dangerous for the control of the radio spectrum.
How did Cuban customs detect the hidden Starlink equipment?
The Cuban customs detected the hidden Starlink equipment thanks to the "expertise and training" of its forces. The devices were found inside three televisions sent from the United States to the province of Holguín. This discovery is part of the strengthening of measures to control access to satellite internet on the island.
What are the penalties for using Starlink in Cuba without authorization?
The use of Starlink in Cuba without authorization is considered a crime and may lead to legal penalties. The Cuban regime has warned that the installation and use of this equipment without the proper state authorization is illegal. Consequences may include the confiscation of equipment, fines, and other penalties as stipulated in national legislation and the Cuban Penal Code.
What is the cost of Starlink equipment in the informal Cuban market?
In the Cuban informal market, Starlink equipment can cost between 1,300 and 1,800 dollars. These figures represent more than 500,000 Cuban pesos (CUP) according to the current exchange rate in the informal market. Despite the high cost and legal risks, some Cubans access this equipment as an alternative to the service controlled by ETECSA.
What measures has the Cuban regime taken against the importation of Starlink equipment?
The Cuban regime has intensified border control measures to prevent the importation of Starlink equipment. The General Customs of the Republic has detected several attempts to illegally introduce these devices and has increased inspections at airports. Authorities are enforcing strict measures and warn that any attempt to circumvent controls will be pursued, reinforcing their stance that internet access must be regulated by the State.
