Since Saturday afternoon, an eight-year-old boy has been missing in the waters of Playa Larga, located in Boca de Camarioca, Matanzas province. The state-run platform, Con Todos La Victoria, reported on Facebook that the child, whose name has not been disclosed, was last seen swimming with relatives when he was allegedly swept away by the waves or ocean currents.
A comprehensive search and rescue mission has been underway since his disappearance. The operation includes personnel from the Ministry of the Interior, members of the Fire Brigade, the Rescue and Salvage Brigade, as well as local residents, friends, and family of the boy. The efforts continued throughout the night and persist without interruption this Sunday, as confirmed by the social media post.
Authorities remain vigilant in the area, employing both technical and human resources to locate the child. "Their dedication is crucial in this difficult time," the message stated, while urging the public to stay calm, avoid spreading rumors, and remain informed through official channels.
According to a Facebook user known as La Tijera, the child was on vacation at the beach with his older brother, aged 20, and a group of friends and family members. In a moment of inattention, the brother left the boy in the water with a young girl, without adult supervision. Shortly after, the child vanished, and despite efforts to find him, it's unclear if he was swept away by a wave or wandered away from the beach.
Originating from the municipality of Limonar, the family has appealed for help via social media, asking anyone with information about his whereabouts to contact the number 56474878.
In early March, authorities resumed the search for Carlos Javier Sánchez, a 16-year-old who disappeared off the Havana Malecón after being pulled by strong waves. Official reports indicate he was last seen at La Punta while swimming, prompting a search operation supported by the Coast Guard, rescue teams, and local authorities. The Municipal Assembly of People's Power in Centro Habana emphasized the area was unsafe for swimming, especially under adverse weather conditions. The next day, the body of the young man was found, confirming the tragic outcome. The search had been paused the night before due to rough seas but resumed early Friday morning, ending with the discovery of the body.
In April, rescuers found the body of Juan Ramón Herrera Silva, a 45-year-old man who went missing while spearfishing with his father-in-law at Playa Verraco in Santiago de Cuba. His remains were discovered between Playa Larga and Sigüa by technicians from command 4 Vista Alegre, in an operation hampered by strong waves. The Eastern Center for Ecosystems and Biodiversity (BIOECO), where the deceased worked as a diver, also participated in the search. Family and neighbors actively contributed to the search efforts over several days.
Key Details About the Missing Child in Matanzas
What happened to the eight-year-old boy in Matanzas?
The boy went missing while swimming with family members in Playa Larga, Boca de Camarioca. He was reportedly swept away by waves or ocean currents.
Who is involved in the search and rescue operation?
The operation involves personnel from the Ministry of the Interior, the Fire Brigade, the Rescue and Salvage Brigade, and local residents, friends, and family of the child.
How can the public assist in the search effort?
The family has requested that anyone with information about the child's whereabouts contact them at 56474878. They also encourage using official channels for updates.