A Cuban mother is enduring a harrowing ordeal as her son has been missing for three days in Bayamo, located in Granma province.
Niurka Botello issued an urgent plea on Friday, deeply worried about the whereabouts of her son, Rennes Herrera Botello. He left their home on Thursday morning and has neither returned nor reached out to his family since.
Botello, who is in a state of desperation, has called for immediate assistance in locating the young man, emphasizing that he typically does not leave without notifying her first.
"To all my friends and acquaintances, since yesterday morning my son left home and has not returned. He never leaves without informing us. When he plans to stay over at a friend's place, he calls and lets me know," she posted on Facebook. "If anyone has seen him or has any information, please contact me at this number, I am desperate, 58796517."
The distressed mother has consistently posted messages on social media, pleading for help in finding Rennes, and has expressed gratitude for the concern shown by many individuals.
On Sunday, she shared a heartfelt message addressed to her son, imploring him to get in touch: "Today, your sister posted your photo, you two together; she is your blood and mine. I beg you, if someone sees this post and can get it to you, please, my son, respond. Where are you? You have no idea how shattered my heart is, and your sisters are as broken as I am. This phone can't handle the number of people messaging me at all hours inquiring about you."
"Please, come back home for the love of God, my heart is in pieces. Call your sister Lila, who is suffering; call me, but do it soon because my mother's heart is bleeding. You know how much you three mean to me because without you, the wheel of life doesn't turn. Please, Rennes, call me, give me a sign of life, I need to hear your voice," she pleaded.
Botello has not provided details regarding the clothing her son was wearing when he left on Thursday, December 18, nor did she mention his intended destination.
Activists and news profiles on social media have amplified the call for assistance in locating the young man.
In Cuba, there are no official protocols for searching for missing individuals. Due to the lack of state channels and ineffective action by authorities, Cuban families turn to social media to seek community support in finding their loved ones.
Understanding Cuba's Missing Person Challenges
What actions are Cuban families taking to find missing loved ones?
Cuban families are utilizing social media platforms to appeal for help from the community in locating missing relatives due to the absence of government protocols or effective state actions.
Why is social media crucial in the search for missing persons in Cuba?
Social media is vital in Cuba for finding missing persons because it serves as the primary means for families to communicate their plight and gather community support, given the lack of official search procedures.
What is the role of activists in the search for Rennes Herrera Botello?
Activists have been instrumental in spreading the word about Rennes Herrera Botello's disappearance, using social media to boost the family's plea and increase the chances of finding him.