Related videos:
The comedian Ulises Toirac dedicated a message to the families of the young people who are missing following the fire that occurred on Tuesday at a weapons and ammunition storage facility in the town of Melones, Holguín.
In a post on his Facebook wall, Ulises stated that he deeply regrets what has happened and expressed his heartfelt solidarity to the families.
"I don't want to put the carts before the oxen because my wish is that they appear alive beneath the rubble or wherever," he emphasized.
The relatives of the missing persons complain that the authorities are doing nothing to save them.
"They did not search at any time. They told the relatives that they could not do so because it could cause more explosions and they could not risk more lives, and they had to wait 72 hours," denounced Jesus Antonio, uncle of the recruit Liander José García Oliva, 19 years old, to the independent portal CubaNet.
"Yesterday [Wednesday] they went to the parents' house and informed them that there was no chance of survival, that if anyone were still alive, they would have already tried to escape. It hurts me because they declared them dead without searching for them," he added.
The official communicator Lisandra Martín specified that on Wednesday at 4:00 pm, the relatives of the missing persons were informed that the chances of them being alive are almost nil. According to her, they acted "with great respect, in accordance with the regulations, and with all the sensitivity of the moment."
Jesús Antonio shared his frustration on social media, where he questioned the government for putting young recruits at risk in a task that was not theirs, while now no one wants to take a risk for "those kids who were forced to do the dirty work."
"All parents, close and distant relatives should come together and make them stop lying and do what they need to do, which is to give their lives trying to save the unfortunate ones who were forced to be there. I join 100% and would give my life for my nephew and for all those who are there," he assured.
Frequently asked questions about the explosion in Holguín and the situation of the missing recruits
What happened at the military warehouse in Melones, Holguín?
A fire in an armament and ammunition warehouse in Melones, Holguín, caused a series of explosions, leaving 13 people missing, including young recruits from the Military Service. The situation in the area remains dangerous due to the ongoing explosions, complicating search and rescue efforts.
Why is there criticism of the Cuban government regarding this incident?
Criticism of the Cuban government arises from the perception that they have not managed the crisis adequately and have shown a lack of interest in searching for the missing. Relatives and citizens criticize the regime's lack of action and transparency, as well as the obligation of young people to undertake dangerous tasks without proper training, within the framework of mandatory military service.
What is the current situation of the missing recruits in Holguín?
Until now, the recruits remain missing, and the authorities have indicated that the chances of finding them alive are very low due to the magnitude of the explosions. The lack of safe access to ground zero has hindered effective search and rescue efforts, leaving the family members in a state of distress and desperation.
How has public opinion in Cuba reacted to this event?
Cuban public opinion has reacted with indignation and criticism towards the government for its handling of the tragedy. The silence of the official press and the prioritization of other issues in state media have come under severe scrutiny. Furthermore, the mandatory Military Service has faced renewed criticism, particularly for endangering young people who lack adequate preparation.
Filed under: