Authorities are searching for two Cuban teenagers, aged 13 and 14, who have been missing for more than five days. Their families have turned to social media to seek assistance in locating them. Identified through Facebook posts, the missing girls are Melanie Rodríguez González and Yoandriane Díaz García.
Family members reported that Díaz García left her home in the city of Cárdenas, Matanzas, on Saturday, January 13, and has not returned. Residents of Calle Progreso #1137, between 25 and 26, state that she departed with a backpack full of clothes but has since made no contact with her family and does not answer her phone.
It is believed that during her disappearance, Yoandriane was not alone. She was reportedly in the company of Melanie Rodríguez González, who has been missing since she was last seen five days ago at the José Martí School in Cárdenas. Melanie resides on Industria 212, Between Línea and Souverbille, and was last seen wearing an orange skirt outfit.
The families of both girls have alerted the police about their disappearance, but no concrete leads have been found. Anyone with information is asked to contact the provided numbers: +53 5261 9752 and +53 5945 2653. "We haven't heard anything from her in over five days, and we're desperate. Any clue can make a difference," the families expressed on Facebook.
There is also an urgent call for accountability from anyone who might know the whereabouts of these young girls, especially if this is a case of abduction or involves potential danger. The independent feminist platform Alas Tensas has been advising the families on their rights, including the right for the victim to be searched for, the family's right to be informed, and to receive social services support.
Reports of disappearances have surged in Cuba in recent months. The Alas Tensas Gender Observatory (OGAT) recently released a list of unresolved cases, highlighting that many families of missing women and girls are demanding answers. The platform noted that there are at least ten unsolved cases, some persisting for over a decade. Often, the lack of protocols, limited legal resources, and the criminalization of independent organizations leave families feeling helpless and abandoned.
Understanding Disappearances in Cuba
What should families do if a loved one goes missing in Cuba?
Families should immediately report the disappearance to the police, seek assistance from organizations like Alas Tensas for guidance on their rights, and utilize social media to spread awareness and gather information.
Why are disappearance cases on the rise in Cuba?
The increase in disappearance cases may be linked to systemic issues, including insufficient legal frameworks, lack of resources, and government constraints on independent organizations, which hinder effective responses.