On the morning of this Friday, the search resumed along the coast of Havana for the teenager whose trace was lost while swimming in the waters of the malecon yesterday.
The missing minor has been identified as Carlos Javier Sánchez.
A report published in official media claims that "the rescue and salvage team has resumed its search operations with the support of a vessel from the Border Guard troops."
The information adds that "the operation has the collaboration of specialized rescue teams, as well as support from maritime authorities."
Search efforts are concentrated on the northern coastline, where the minor was last seen.
Previously, a note published by the Municipal Assembly of the People's Power of Centro Habana confirmed that a minor of about 16 years was swimming in the waters of the Malecón when "the force of the waves caught him near the area of La Punta."
The entity added that “from the moment the alert was issued, the rescue and recovery technicians entered the water to conduct an extensive search from the surface of the sea and inland, but no one was found.”
The underwater search was decided to be expanded, with the support of border guard troops, but there were no results either.
"Due to the conditions of the sea, we were unable to continue the operation today," clarified the official authority, who added that the search for the missing child would continue on Friday morning.
The Municipal Assembly of the People's Power expressed regret that such incidents occur, but reminded that it is a place that has "restrictions" and is not "a suitable place for bathing."
He emphasized that on this Thursday, in addition, “the weather conditions were creating a violent swell that surpassed the seawall.”
Images released by the People's Power Assembly showed dozens of people gathered around the area where the incident occurred, along with a patrol car, an ambulance, and members of the Rescue and Salvage team.
Apart from the Rescue and Salvage Team, the Fire Department, the Red Cross, and the emergency medical service SIUM, the main authorities of the Government of Havana and the municipality arrived at the scene.
This tragic incident once again highlights the dangers of swimming at the Malecón under adverse weather conditions. Authorities have repeatedly emphasized the need to avoid such practices, as the power of the sea can take lives in a matter of seconds.
In 2023, the Malecón in Havana was the scene of a dramatic rescue when two young people saved two teenagers who were about to drown due to the strong waves caused by adverse weather conditions.
Initially, it was reported that members of the Fire Department had rescued three minors who were swimming in the sea despite the bad weather.
However, videos recorded by witnesses showed how two citizens risked their lives to save the teenagers, before the rescuers arrived.
Frequently Asked Questions about Disappearances on the Malecón in Havana and Safety in its Waters
Who is the missing minor from the Malecón in Havana?
The missing minor has been identified as Carlos Javier Sánchez, a 16-year-old teenager who disappeared while swimming at the Malecón in Havana, caught by the force of the waves.
What actions are the Cuban authorities taking in the search for the minor?
The authorities have resumed the search with the assistance of a vessel from the Border Guard troops and specialized rescue and salvage teams. The operation is supported by maritime authorities and continues under adverse weather conditions.
Why is it dangerous to swim at the Malecón in Havana?
Bathing in the Malecón of Havana is dangerous due to changing weather conditions and the violent waves that can exceed the wall of the Malecón. Authorities have insisted on avoiding these practices to prevent tragedies like the disappearance of Carlos Javier Sánchez.
What is the history of similar incidents on the Malecón in Havana?
In 2023, the Malecón was the scene of a shocking rescue when two young individuals saved two teenagers from drowning due to the strong waves. The sea can claim lives in a matter of seconds, which is why authorities advise against swimming in these waters.
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