The city of Santiago de Cuba is on high alert following the disappearance of an 11-year-old boy named Cristian. He left his home four days ago and has yet to return. His mother, Yuli Pérez, is frantically searching for him throughout the city and is pleading for public assistance, as shared by Cuban social media user Yasser Sosa Tamayo.
Cristian has reportedly been seen wandering around different areas of the city with other children, asking for money, which puts him in grave danger on the streets, according to the post.
"His mother is on the verge of despair, calling out his name at every corner. She has two other children, and her heart breaks with each passing minute without news," Sosa wrote, urging the community to actively participate in the search.
If someone spots him, the social media user implores that they do not let him go. Instead, they should try to keep him safe and immediately contact his mother or those helping in the search.
Direct contact for Cristian's mother: +53 5153 5207. The community is also urged to share this information widely across social media, WhatsApp groups, and local media to reach as many people as possible.
"The disappearance of a child is a critical situation demanding immediate action from everyone. Every minute counts. Every share could save a life," warned the author of the post.
In recent years, coinciding with a rise in violence in Cuba, reports of missing persons have become increasingly common, causing concern among families. In the absence of an official channel to address these cases, many desperate families turn to social media and independent media outlets for help in locating their loved ones.
Community Efforts in Finding Missing Children in Cuba
What should you do if you see Cristian?
If you see Cristian, try to keep him safe and immediately contact his mother or those involved in the search.
How can the community assist in finding missing children?
The community can help by sharing information widely on social media, WhatsApp groups, and local media to ensure the alert reaches as many people as possible.
Why are families turning to social media for help?
Due to the lack of official channels, families are turning to social media and independent media to gain visibility and assistance in locating their missing relatives.