Melissa Castillo Fernández, who was reported missing earlier this week in Havana, has been located and is currently involved in the necessary legal procedures, as disclosed by the independent feminist platform, Yo Sí Te Creo en Cuba.
The organization shared on its Facebook page, "We have closed the alert for Melissa Castillo Fernández, who was in a situation of forced disappearance and is now undergoing the required legal processes." They emphasized the critical nature of early alerts in safeguarding lives and expressed gratitude to all who helped by sharing the alert.
The platform detailed the circumstances surrounding Castillo's disappearance through a post on the social network X. They highlighted that the 26-year-old mother of three was last seen on January 13 at 9:00 a.m. She had left her home in Marianao, Havana, to meet with her attorney regarding housing paperwork but never arrived at her appointment.
Described as short, with a stout build, and having dark skin, black hair, and eyes, Castillo was last seen wearing a red dress and a blue coat. She also has a tattoo on one shoulder bearing her children's names. On the day of her disappearance, she had her mobile phone with her and sent her last message on January 12 at 4:06 p.m., indicating she was on her way home. Her phone had been turned off since then, heightening her family's concerns.
The family attempted to file a police report, but it was not accepted until 72 hours had passed, following standard protocol. In Cuba, reports of disappearances have surged over the past year, leaving families to turn to social media due to the absence of a state channel and increasing insecurity.
The issue of missing women is becoming a growing concern in Cuba, with at least 10 cases unresolved, some dating back more than a decade. The Gender Observatory Alas Tensas (OGAT) has released a record of cases that remain unsolved, while families of missing girls and women continue to demand justice and effective action.
Understanding Forced Disappearances in Cuba
What are the circumstances of Melissa Castillo Fernández's disappearance?
Melissa Castillo Fernández, a mother of three, was last seen on January 13th when she left her home in Marianao, Havana, for a legal appointment she never reached. Her disappearance led to heightened concern as her phone was turned off and she was unreachable.
How have Cuban families responded to the increase in disappearances?
Cuban families have increasingly turned to social media to report disappearances due to the lack of an official state channel and growing insecurity, as police reports are only accepted after 72 hours.
What actions are being taken to address the issue of missing women in Cuba?
The Gender Observatory Alas Tensas (OGAT) has documented cases of missing women, highlighting the need for justice and effective action as families continue to demand solutions for unresolved disappearances.