An elderly woman and her great-granddaughter have been missing since Friday, December 26. They departed from Havana heading to Mayarí, Holguín, but did not reach their destination.
The Gender Observatory of Alas Tensas (OGAT) raised the alarm, confirming the disappearance with the family.
The missing individuals are identified as Adela Pupo Rodríguez, aged 66, and her great-granddaughter, Evelin Sofía Castro Moreno, who is just 6 years old.
Last Sighting and Description
The pair was last seen in the Jesús María neighborhood of Old Havana around 3:00 p.m., when they embarked on their journey eastward. Since that moment, no family members have been able to reach them.
According to reports, Adela was wearing a long-sleeved purple blouse and gray leggings, while Evelin was dressed in blue denim pants and a pink t-shirt. They live in Apodaca, between Suárez and Revillagigedo, in the historic center of the capital.
A photo shared on social media shows Evelin Sofía wearing light-colored clothing and carrying a child's backpack, accompanied by her great-grandmother, amplifying public concern due to their vulnerability.
Family and Community Efforts
The family expected their arrival in Holguín on the same day, and after exhausting personal inquiries without any news, they filed a report with the police. However, there is still no official information regarding their whereabouts.
The search is being spearheaded by Elena Fernández Pupo, Adela's daughter and the child's grandmother. “Any information may be crucial,” they caution on social media.
You can report any leads by calling +53 5 955 3204, available at any time.
Possible Travel Details
While the mode of transportation remains unspecified, several comments suggest they might have been traveling on a rented bus. Many emphasize the importance of identifying the bus driver or passengers to possibly retrace their steps.
“Find out which bus they took and where it stopped between Havana and here. They might have gotten off and be stranded in another province, or boarded a similar bus headed elsewhere,” one user suggested.
Another shared a recent anecdote: “My sister went through something similar. The bus broke down, and she was out of touch for almost three days because her phone ran out of battery.”
Concerns Over Vulnerability
The fact that a young child and an elderly person traveled alone heightens the anxiety surrounding the situation. Several users criticized the decision: “Older adults shouldn't travel unaccompanied. Their memory can fail them,” one person noted, while another questioned, “Why send a small child with an elderly woman?”
Questions also arose about Adela's access to communication in emergencies: “Did she have a phone? Did she know any family numbers by heart in case she got stranded?”
Widespread Anxiety Over Disappearances
The case quickly gained attention, not just due to the family connection but also because it highlights a growing concern in Cuba: the noticeable rise in disappearance reports.
“Every time you open Facebook, there's someone missing,” remarked a user. Another added, “Sometimes I can't believe it. It's too much. It's distressing to find these posts. It's either an accident, a femicide, or a murder.”
Some expressed feeling unsafe even when traveling: “You can't leave home without fear,” “This is unprecedented, there are more missing people than during Machado's time, and there isn't even any transportation.”
Historical Context and Community Reactions
While some skeptics questioned the authenticity of such reports, the community's response was prompt and clear.
“It's not all about seeking likes. Just yesterday, a man who was missing for 15 days was found. He got disoriented while looking for work and had no way to communicate,” someone explained. Another person added, “This post is true. They live next door to my brother in Mayarí.”
Amid the discussions, a reflection emerges: “In this country, disappearances have always existed. The difference is that before the Internet, they weren’t known.”
Among the numerous reactions, the most frequent plea is for their safe return: “May God protect them,” “May they return home safe and sound,” “May they come back soon.”
Prayers have also been shared: “Lord, cover them with your precious blood in the name of your beloved son Jesus,” “Protect and guide them to their destination, don't let go of their hand,” “Amen, amen, amen.”
If you have seen Adela Pupo Rodríguez or Evelin Sofía Castro Moreno, or have any information, please contact the family at: +53 5 955 3204.
Sharing this information could be crucial in bringing them home.
Questions About the Disappearance of Adela Pupo Rodríguez and Evelin Sofía Castro Moreno
When were Adela and Evelin last seen?
They were last seen in the Jesús María neighborhood of Old Havana around 3:00 p.m. on December 26.
What should you do if you have information about their whereabouts?
You should contact the family at +53 5 955 3204, as any information could be vital to their safe return.
Why has this case gained significant attention in Cuba?
The case is part of a troubling trend of increasing disappearance reports in Cuba, which has alarmed the public.