José Carlos Guerrero García, one of the unfortunate victims of the January explosion at a munitions depot in the town of Melones, Holguín, was on the brink of his 20th birthday this week. "On September 11, 2025, you would have completed your mandatory military service, and tomorrow you would turn 20. May God protect you wherever you are," expressed his grieving father, Julio César Guerrero Batista, on Facebook, reflecting on his son's untimely death during compulsory military service.
In the Facebook community "No More Victims in Cuba's Military Service," activist Alfredo González, also a bereaved father, acknowledged José Carlos. "If it weren't for the NEGLIGENCE and CHAOS in Cuba's MILITARY SERVICE, he would be celebrating his 20th birthday today. Let's send a congratulations to the heavens or an amen. I feel it deeply, knowing how hard these days are for our families," he lamented.
José Carlos was among the 13 victims officially declared deceased by the Cuban Armed Forces' high command, following the tragic event on January 7.
Calls for Accountability and Transparency
Shortly after the disaster, Julio César Guerrero demanded a genuine investigation and the recovery of his son's remains. He argued that no steps were taken to search the site or investigate the incident. According to a daily report from an officer of the FAR, operations couldn't commence because munitions were still detonating, posing a risk to rescuers and investigators.
The grieving father questioned when the search and investigation actually occurred, revealing that families have yet to receive a comprehensive explanation of the events. "Why didn't the minister of the FAR and the provincial PCC secretary meet with the families when they were in Holguín to, at the very least, offer condolences?" he asked.
Guerrero insisted on the recovery of his son's body and the others. "What will be done with the remaining military material on site? I demand my son's body," he declared. In a follow-up Facebook post, he stated, "Without a body, there will be no ceremony," a sentiment echoed by family and friends.
Official Stance and Public Outcry
The MINFAR commission handling the case stated that the extreme complexity of the site, due to explosions, gas emissions, and structural damage, made it impossible to retrieve the 13 individuals—four officers and nine soldiers—who bravely tried to contain the fire.
Official reports concluded that the accident site was inaccessible and survival was deemed impossible. After intense efforts, the likely cause was identified as an electrical fault due to an internal short circuit.
In the aftermath, the regime's silence on the investigation spurred outrage among victims' families, who decried negligence, lack of urgency in rescue operations, and a dearth of information. Authorities claimed that the ongoing explosion risk prevented specialists from entering the military site for rescue missions.
Growing Opposition to Mandatory Military Service
Amidst the sorrow and anger over the loss of nine young soldiers and four military personnel, the "No to Military Service" campaign gained momentum. This initiative, led by activists and independent organizations, calls for an end to what many Cubans view as an oppressive and hazardous system for the youth.
Activist Yamilka Laffita, known as Lara Crofs, exposed that authorities were pressuring mothers in Melones to send their sons to compulsory military service. "They haven't retrieved the bodies of those trapped inside the silos, yet they're recruiting more youths for certain death," she criticized.
Laffita highlighted the increasing threats from Officer Yoel Méndez against mothers who refuse to endanger their children. "Cuba's Presidency, MINFAR, have your decency and respect reached their end?" she questioned, condemning the authorities.
Understanding the Military Tragedy in Melones
What caused the munitions depot explosion in Melones?
The explosion was reportedly caused by an electrical fault due to a short circuit within the depot.
How many individuals were affected by the explosion?
The tragic event resulted in the deaths of 13 individuals, including nine soldiers and four officers.
What is the "No to Military Service" campaign?
The campaign is an activist-led movement demanding the abolition of mandatory military service in Cuba, viewed as dangerous and oppressive for the youth.