Relatives of 19 Cuban nationals who embarked on a journey from Havana in a makeshift boat on Tuesday, August 11, have been anxiously awaiting any sign of their loved ones' whereabouts, as communication has been lost for several days.
The distressing situation was highlighted by journalist Mario Vallejo through his social media platforms. Vallejo reported receiving a desperate plea directly from the families of the missing migrants in Cuba.
"I've just received a desperate message from Cuba, which I am sharing in full, hoping that someone might have information about these individuals or know if they were rescued by any coast guard, commercial vessel, or fishermen," Vallejo expressed.
The Ill-Fated Voyage with Children on Board
According to the message received by Vallejo, the boat set sail around 2:00 PM on August 11, carrying a total of 19 people, including 12 adults and seven children.
A video shared by Vallejo shows several individuals aboard the vessel, which appeared marginally safer than many others that have been documented in recent years.
Family members have completely lost contact with those on the boat and are unaware if they reached their intended destination safely. Social media posts speculate that their goal was to reach Mexico.
Information Scarcity and Desperate Hopes
Vallejo was clear about the limitations of the information provided: "The details come from the message sent by the families. As of now, I have no official confirmation regarding what happened to the vessel."
Among those missing, causing significant concern, are two-year-old twins, Leosdel and Leosniel, who were traveling with their mother, Yusimy Garrobo Leiva, a 35-year-old resident of Vertientes, in the Camagüey province.
Images shared by Vallejo depict several of the missing individuals, including the young twins dressed in Chicago Bulls attire, captured in a photograph seemingly taken before their departure.
"If anyone has verifiable information, has seen the boat, or knows of a rescue related to this case, please contact me. Every piece of data could be crucial for these families," Vallejo implored.
Vallejo concluded his post with a heartfelt plea that echoes the distress of all the families involved: "God willing, may they all be found alive."
Key Information About the Missing Cuban Rafters
Who are the missing Cuban rafters?
The missing rafters consist of 19 individuals, including 12 adults and seven children, who departed from Havana on August 11.
What is the intended destination of the rafters?
Social media comments suggest that the group intended to reach Mexico.
Who are Leosdel and Leosniel?
Leosdel and Leosniel are two-year-old twins who are among the missing, traveling with their mother, Yusimy Garrobo Leiva.