For the past two years, a Cuban mother has been tirelessly searching for her son, Reinel Porra Cervantes, who vanished at the young age of 19 while serving in the military. Last seen on July 19, 2022, Reinel was entering a military unit in Topes de Collantes, located in Sancti Spíritus province. Despite her numerous attempts to seek answers, Araceli Cervantes Rabí has only been met with the repetitive assurance that authorities are "working on the case," as stated in a Facebook post from the group "No More Victims in Cuban Military Service."
Reinel's disappearance is shrouded in mystery. Initially, his commanders reported that he had deserted, later suggesting he may have attended a party. However, there has been no trace of Reinel, his belongings, or his phone. The family is left "helpless and in increasing agony,” shared Clara Toledo, a close associate of Reinel's mother.
A Heartbreaking Plea from a Mother
Reinel's mother, who hails from a small community in Jatibonico known as "Trilladera," has three daughters, with Reinel being her only son. Desperate for any sign of his whereabouts, she pleads for him to reach out. "Please, give me a sign. I’m waiting to hear from you, my son. Where are you?" she begs.
Adding to her distress, Araceli suffers from systemic lupus, which has caused her to lose her hair. Amidst her anguish, she calls upon other parents to pray for her son’s return. Speaking for Araceli, Clara Toledo maintains hope that one day the truth about Reinel’s fate will be revealed.
A Public Outcry Against Military Service in Cuba
The emotional appeal by Reinel's mother has resonated deeply with many followers of the anti-military service group in Cuba. "Many things happen during military service that supposedly even they can't explain. Reinel Porra Cervantes, 19, disappeared from military service. To this day, we have no answers," wrote Anailín Vázquez, a user voicing her frustration.
Another user, Yoandi Toledo, expressed solidarity with Reinel's decision, should he have chosen to disappear willingly. "Take care wherever you are, my brother. If this was your choice, I stand by you. Just be safe, wherever you may be. Our story will continue, but together," he commented.
Tragedies in Cuban Military Service
Reinel's case is not isolated. Several families in Cuba have been torn apart by the loss of their sons during military service. One such case is that of Adrián Rodríguez García from Santa Clara. Though he completed his service in 2023, he was being disciplined and was set to be discharged in early January 2024. Tragically, he was fatally struck by a vehicle on December 31 while abandoned on a road. His mother, who had visited him earlier that day, received the heartbreaking news upon returning home. In a recent trial, the negligent driver faces a maximum sentence of nine years, starkly contrasting with the harsh 23-year sentences given to young protesters from the July 11, 2021 demonstrations.