The family of Evangelio Rafael Batista Montero, affectionately known as "Fello," raised concerns on social media this Saturday about his disappearance following his arrival at Havana's national bus station. His relatives posted in the Facebook group "Choferes de Ómnibus por Siempre" that Fello departed from Holguín last Wednesday, bound for the Cuban capital, and has not been heard from since reaching his destination.
According to his great-niece, Darleny Nashlie Zaldívar Escalona, Fello intended to catch a bus back to Holguín. Unfortunately, he never boarded the return transport, and the family has been unable to obtain any information from the bus terminals despite their persistent efforts.
"He is elderly, ill, and deaf. No family member is aware of his whereabouts in Havana," Darleny expressed on social media, appealing for community assistance. The family is actively seeking the help of drivers and citizens to locate Evangelio, urging anyone with information to contact them at 51436380.
Fello's health condition is a significant concern for his family, as his medical issues and hearing impairment make navigating unfamiliar settings particularly challenging. One of the most distressing aspects for the family is the lack of response from authorities or bus terminal officials.
Zaldívar stated, "We call the terminals, and they don't answer the phone," which has complicated their search efforts and drawn criticism about how such situations are managed. Requests for help on social media to find missing relatives are common, as are complaints about the Cuban regime's inaction in these cases.
In another instance, a family from the San Miguel del Padrón municipality urgently seeks assistance in locating María Elena Cuéllar, a 68-year-old woman missing since last Saturday in Havana. Her sister, Odalys Cuéllar, reported that María Elena was last seen at her home on Calle C No. 12, Merceditas neighborhood, in San Francisco de Paula. The family notes that María Elena suffers from a nervous condition and usually dresses in white.
Similarly, the family of Odey Gamboa Batista, a Cuban resident of Cruces, Cienfuegos, has turned to social media for help after days of not knowing his whereabouts. Odey's sister, Elizabeth Abad Fernández, shared on Facebook that the 44-year-old has been missing for three days, with no sightings reported.
Frequently Asked Questions About Missing Persons in Cuba
What should families do when a loved one goes missing in Cuba?
Families are advised to immediately report the disappearance to local authorities, post on social media for community assistance, and contact bus stations or other relevant locations where the person was last seen.
Why is there criticism of the Cuban regime in cases of missing persons?
Criticism arises from the perceived lack of response and action by Cuban authorities in handling missing persons cases, leading families to seek help through alternative means such as social media.
How can the community help find missing individuals?
Community members can assist by sharing information on social media, keeping an eye out for the missing person, and reporting any sightings or relevant details to the family or authorities.