A mother of three children has been missing in Havana since the day before yesterday, when she left her Marianao home for an appointment but never reached her destination or returned home, according to independent Cuban platforms. Melissa Castillo Fernández, 26, was last seen on January 13 at 9:00 a.m., when she left to meet a lawyer for housing paperwork. However, she never made it to her appointment and did not go back to her house.
The platforms Yo Sí Te Creo en Cuba and Alas Tensas issued a search alert on social media this Tuesday. The alert mentioned that Castillo's family attempted to report her disappearance to the police, but were informed that it would not be accepted until 72 hours had passed.
Castillo had her cellphone with her and sent a final message at 4:06 p.m., stating she was heading home, but "after that, her phone was turned off." The young woman is described as short and stout, with black skin and hair, and black eyes. She has a tattoo on one shoulder with the names of her three children. At the time she went missing, she was wearing a red dress and a blue coat.
Anyone with information that could help locate her can contact Reglita at 56085140. Friends and family have also taken to social media to appeal for assistance in finding her.
Community's Desperate Calls for Help
A neighbor, identified as Yoan Gil, shared a plea on Facebook, saying, "She is my neighbor; please share. The family is frantically searching. She never leaves without coming back. Her children are starting to notice her absence and are very worried. Call the numbers in the post or contact the police."
The notice emphasizes that "the mother and relatives are desperate" and urges anyone who has seen the young woman to call 53231254, 53254975, or 56085149. "Please, any information is crucial," the message implores.
Rising Concern Over Disappearances
Reports of disappearances have surged in Cuba over the past year. The absence of a state-managed channel to handle these cases, coupled with increasing insecurity, has driven families to seek help through social media. The disappearance of women in Cuba appears to be an escalating issue, with at least ten cases remaining unsolved, some dating back more than a decade.
The Alas Tensas Gender Observatory (OGAT) has published a list of cases that remain unresolved, as families of missing women and girls continue to demand answers.
Case Update
In an announcement made this afternoon, the platform Yo Sí Te Creo en Cuba confirmed that Melissa Castillo Fernández has been found, and the disappearance alert has been closed. The independent organization stated that the young woman was subjected to forced disappearance and is now undergoing the necessary legal procedures. They emphasized "the importance of early alerts to safeguard lives."
Frequently Asked Questions About Missing Persons in Cuba
What are the initial steps to take when someone goes missing in Cuba?
The first step is to notify the local police, although they may not officially register the case until 72 hours have passed. Concurrently, it is advisable to use social media platforms to spread awareness and gather information.
Why is there a delay in police action for missing persons in Cuba?
The police in Cuba typically wait 72 hours before officially accepting a missing person's report, a protocol that many find frustrating and inadequate for urgent cases.
How can social media help in finding missing persons?
Social media platforms can quickly disseminate information to a wide audience, increasing the likelihood of reaching someone who might have seen the missing person or can provide valuable leads.