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The 17-year-old teenager Wilkevin Prades Tejeda, reported missing in Santiago de Cuba, has been found safe and sound, as confirmed by independent journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada through his social media.
"A young man from Santiago who had been reported missing has been found safe and sound. His family sends their gratitude for the concern shown by everyone. The young man is doing well with his family," Mayeta posted on her Facebook profile.
The news was received with relief by those who had been following the case, which had been shared by dozens of people on social media since Tuesday.
However, it also generated reactions of annoyance and questions from users who demanded greater accountability from the teenager.
Wilkevin, a student at the School of Nursing in Santiago de Cuba, was last seen on Tuesday in the Santa María neighborhood, where he lives with his family. When he did not return home or answer calls, his family began to fear the worst, especially since his phone was turned off, which was unusual for him, they said.
The alert was widely disseminated by Mayeta Labrada, who called for citizen collaboration and asked that the case be shared in local groups in the eastern part of the country to increase the chances of finding him.
Although the news of their appearance was celebrated, many internet users expressed concern over the lack of explanations regarding their whereabouts for 48 hours.
"They disappear without saying anything and leave the family in a panic, irresponsible," wrote a driver.
"How good that he showed up safe, thank God, amen, but may his elders give him a good spanking and a proper scolding so he doesn't do it again. What desperation that mother and family must have gone through!" commented a retiree.
Other users pointed out that cases like this should serve as a lesson for young people and families, highlighting the importance of communication during times of increased violence.
"That young man should take it as a lesson that he has a family that loves him, that communication is important, and if his mobile phone runs out of battery, there's always the landline, as well as the phones of friends. There's no excuse for tormenting families with so many things happening. It could have caused a heart attack for any family member, and then his conscience wouldn't let him live," said a woman from Santiago.
Some comments also recalled that on other occasions, young people have voluntarily gone missing for emotional reasons, something that—according to internet users—could undermine the credibility of potential disappearances in the future.
"After the wolf comes, no one will pay attention. Out of respect for those who truly disappear, it is necessary to explain what happened," one warned.
So far, no details have been revealed about the circumstances of the disappearance or the location where Wilkevin was.
The case adds to a growing list of citizen reports regarding disappearances in Cuba, an issue that many families are now addressing through social media due to the lack of effective institutional channels for these cases.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Disappearance and Location of Wilkevin Prades Tejeda in Santiago de Cuba
Who is Wilkevin Prades Tejeda and what happened to him?
Wilkevin Prades Tejeda is a 17-year-old teenager who had been reported missing in Santiago de Cuba and was found safe and sound. A student at the School of Nursing, he was last seen in the Santa María neighborhood, and his phone had been turned off, which concerned his family. The news of his discovery was confirmed by journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada.
What was the community's reaction to Wilkevin's disappearance?
The disappearance of Wilkevin caused great concern in the community, which shared the alert on social media to help locate him. The news of his reappearance was met with relief, but it also sparked criticism over the lack of explanations regarding his whereabouts. Some internet users expressed frustration and demanded greater accountability from the young man.
What role did social media play in the search for Wilkevin?
Social media played a crucial role in spreading the alert about Wilkevin's disappearance. Journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada used his Facebook profile to request public assistance and increase visibility for the case, which contributed to him being located quickly.
Why is communication important in cases of disappearance?
Communication is crucial to avoid unnecessary worries and to keep families informed about the whereabouts of their loved ones. In Wilkevin's case, the lack of communication caused distress for his family. Social media users emphasized the importance of keeping mobile phones charged and using other means of communication if necessary.
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