Rescue teams stationed in Remedios, Villa Clara, are actively maintaining communication with at least one individual located beneath the debris of a collapsed abandoned structure in the area. This update was provided by the state-run Cuban News Agency (ACN) at 10:11 PM on Wednesday.
The collapse impacted what local sources unofficially identified as the old Basic Secondary School in the Countryside (ESBEC) number one, also known as "La 1," situated on the road to Rojas.
Henry Omar, an ACN correspondent on the ground, emphasized that "this interaction facilitates ongoing rescue efforts as clearing operations progress in the affected area," as stated by rescue forces present at the site.
The trapped individuals have been confirmed as residents of Caibarién, a neighboring coastal town also within Villa Clara. Their families remain on-site, closely monitoring the developments of the rescue operations.
The operation involves firefighters, the Red Cross, the Integrated Medical Emergency System (SIUM), and heavy machinery, including cranes and shovels, to remove debris.
The use of drones for locating the trapped individuals was confirmed as part of the operation by the Provincial Fire Command, describing the efforts as "highly dangerous and complex."
Susely Morfa González, the first secretary of the Communist Party in Villa Clara, preliminarily estimated that around three people were inside the building when it collapsed.
Unverified reports on social media suggested that up to 14 individuals might be trapped, with two bodies recovered, though these figures have not been confirmed by authorities.
Additionally, there were unconfirmed reports that some individuals inside the structure might have been scavenging for iron and other materials when the collapse occurred, a common practice in Cuba due to a shortage of building materials.
ACN confirmed the presence of "the highest political and governmental authorities of the province and municipality" on-site, alongside representatives from Caibarién. The health system remains on high alert, ready to provide immediate care as needed.
This incident is part of a broader pattern of structural deterioration affecting many former ESBECs across the country. These schools, established in 1971 as part of the regime's educational model combining study and agricultural work, numbered around 1,400 at their peak.
Their dismantlement began in 2009 and was formalized by Communist Party Guideline 148 in 2011, leaving many of these structures abandoned. In March of this year, local residents had already reported the risk of collapse of an old school without any action from authorities.
Building collapses due to structural decay are a recurring issue in Cuba. Recent similar incidents in Matanzas and Colón have resulted in injuries.
"Authorities reiterated that the priority remains ensuring the safety of rescuers and the saving of lives," according to the latest update from ACN.
FAQs on the Remedios Rescue Operation
What caused the building collapse in Remedios?
The collapse was likely due to structural deterioration, a common problem in many of the former ESBECs, which have been left abandoned since their dismantlement began in 2009.
How are the rescue teams communicating with those trapped?
Rescue teams are maintaining active communication with at least one individual trapped under the rubble, assisting and guiding them as clearing operations continue.
Have there been other similar incidents in Cuba recently?
Yes, similar incidents of building collapses have occurred recently, including in Matanzas and Colón, due to widespread structural decay.