A young man previously reported missing in Havana has been discovered dead under still unclear conditions, leaving friends and neighbors in shock. The grim news surfaced on Facebook, shared by several users, including Almakki Díaz, who stated that the young man, whose identity remains officially undisclosed, was last seen several days ago in the Centro Habana municipality.
His family and friends reported his disappearance, launching an intensive search through social media and alternative outlets. Preliminary reports suggest that the young man had gone out to sell a mobile phone, after which all contact was lost. He was a resident of 80th Street and 19th Avenue in the Playa municipality. The missing person's report was filed by a Cuban woman living in zone 24 of East Havana.
Cuban lawyer Manuel Viera, known on social platforms as "Manuel Viera Porelcambio," also addressed the case, writing: "Yesterday, the police retrieved a body in the La Lisa municipality. Please confirm if this young man from Playa, who was missing, was found dead yesterday Sunday in a lagoon in La Lisa, near 250th Street."
Many confirmed the tragic news in the comments: "Yes, very sad, a childhood friend of my nephew, such pain for that mother, who a few years ago also lost her eldest son tragically," one user expressed. Another person commented, "It's a very unfortunate event, let's hope the truth is uncovered and the responsible party is held accountable. Condolences to the family."
Another internaut added, "It's true, poor boy and poor family who have already lost a brother. RIP. They are practically my neighbors. My condolences to the entire family and friends."
In recent months, Cuba has seen a troubling rise in missing persons cases, many ending in tragedy. This has sparked widespread concern among the population and highlighted the urgent need for a more effective response from the authorities.
One of the latest cases involved Jesús David Corcho Pérez, a 22-year-old from Jovellanos, Matanzas, who disappeared in November 2024 after leaving home on his scooter. Days later, he was found deceased. Another Cuban youth went missing for 15 days in December 2024 after failing to return home from a permitted leave from his military service in Havana. Fortunately, he was found wandering in a park and appeared to be in good condition, though the circumstances of his disappearance remain unknown.
Additionally, in January 2025, a 15-year-old teenager disappeared in Cienfuegos after going fishing near the Ciudad Electronuclear (CEN) area. Family and friends launched a thorough search along the coast, extending to Playa Girón in Matanzas.
These incidents, among others, underscore a distressing trend on the island. The nation's economic and social crisis has intensified insecurity and violence, contributing to the surge in disappearances. The lack of resources and ineffective response from authorities exacerbate this issue, highlighting the necessity for more robust protocols and adequate support for affected families.
Frequently Asked Questions about Missing Persons in Cuba
What are the main causes of the increase in missing persons cases in Cuba?
The rise in missing persons cases in Cuba is largely attributed to the ongoing economic and social crisis, which has heightened insecurity and violence across the country.
How are families coping with the disappearance of their loved ones?
Families often rely on social media and community support to search for their missing loved ones, although they face challenges due to limited resources and inadequate response from the authorities.
What steps can be taken to improve the situation of missing persons in Cuba?
Implementing more effective protocols and providing adequate support to affected families are crucial steps in addressing the issue of missing persons in Cuba.