A 13-year-old girl, who had been missing since May 14 from the Jovellanos municipality in Matanzas, has been found alive and well in the province of Mayabeque. The teenager was discovered in Madruga, as reported by the Facebook page "Con Todos La Victoria," associated with the Ministry of the Interior in Matanzas.
On May 19, the girl's father shared a heartfelt plea on the "Compra y Venta Jovellanos" Facebook group, posting a photo of his daughter and urging, "Please, if anyone has seen this girl, call this number (...) I am her father and I am desperate." This appeal, along with the family's relentless support, played a crucial role in aiding the Ministry of the Interior (Minint) to locate the missing child.
Upon her rescue, the young girl was taken to a specialized facility designed to care for children and adolescents, where it was confirmed that she was in good physical condition. During the operation, authorities arrested a woman named Sixney Velázquez Berrier, who is accused of abducting the child and not returning her home. Velázquez Berrier faces charges related to the corruption of minors and remains in custody as the legal process unfolds.
This incident adds to a series of recent child disappearances in Cuba that have sparked significant public concern. On May 17, independent journalist Iris Mariño from La Hora de Cuba reported the recovery of Emelis, a 12-year-old girl who had been missing for over 24 hours in Camagüey. Emelis was on her way to visit her paternal grandmother but never arrived. She was eventually found, although details about her disappearance have not been disclosed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Missing Children in Cuba
What measures are in place to find missing children in Cuba?
Cuban authorities, such as the Ministry of the Interior, work in collaboration with families and communities to locate missing children. Social media platforms also play a crucial role in spreading awareness and gathering information.
What charges does Sixney Velázquez Berrier face?
Sixney Velázquez Berrier is facing charges related to the corruption of minors and remains in custody while the judicial process is ongoing.