The growing crisis of missing persons in Spain

In recent years, Spain has witnessed a distressing increase in the number of missing person cases. Each disappearance tells a unique story, filled with uncertainties and heartache for the families left behind.

While some individuals are eventually found, others remain missing, leaving behind a trail of unanswered questions and unresolved grief. High-profile cases like those of Levi Davis and Jay Slater have drawn significant media attention, yet they represent only a fraction of the many who go missing every day.

Notable cases: Levi Davis and Jay Slater

Levi Davis, a young man who disappeared on October 29, 2022, remains unaccounted for despite extensive search efforts. His passport was discovered at Barcelona’s Port, yet no further traces have been found, leaving his family and friends in a prolonged state of anguish. Similarly, Jay Slater’s disappearance ended tragically when his body was found with multiple broken bones, suggesting a catastrophic fall. The circumstances surrounding both cases are shrouded in mystery, highlighting the complex and often harrowing nature of missing person investigations.

The role of SOSDesaparecidos

SOSDesaparecidos, a non-profit organisation based in Caravaca de la Cruz, Murcia, has been at the forefront of efforts to locate missing persons since its inception in 2007. The organisation collaborates with families, media, and law enforcement to disseminate information and coordinate search efforts. Their comprehensive guidelines provide crucial steps for families to follow when a loved one goes missing, emphasising the importance of quick action and community involvement.

Immediate steps to take when someone goes missing

1. Assess habits and contacts: Reflect on the missing person’s routines and habits. Speak with anyone they interacted with on the day they disappeared.
2. Form hypotheses: Consider possible reasons for their disappearance.
3. Report to police: If no clear explanation emerges, contact local police immediately to file a report.
4. Engage with media: Publicise the disappearance through press, radio, and television.
5. Distribute posters: Create and distribute posters with a photograph and contact details of the authorities, avoiding family phone numbers to prevent prank calls.
6. Leverage social media: Share information widely on social media platforms.
7. Contact relevant organisations: Reach out to municipal police, fire departments, social services, and other institutions that can aid in the search.
8. Maintain regular communication with investigators: Keep in touch with the lead investigator and stay informed about the case’s progress.

The various reasons behind disappearances

Disappearances can be broadly categorised into voluntary, involuntary, and forced, each with distinct characteristics:

1. Voluntary disappearances: Individuals who choose to go missing, often due to personal, familial, or financial issues. This includes minors running away from home or adults wishing to start anew without informing their loved ones.
2. Involuntary disappearances: These occur due to external factors beyond the individual’s control, such as accidents, natural disasters, or cognitive impairments.
3. Forced disappearances: Involves criminal activities, such as kidnappings or human trafficking, and parental abductions in custody disputes.

Rights of families of missing persons

Families of missing persons have the right to a thorough search and investigation, to be kept informed about the case, and to receive psychological and legal support. They deserve respectful and dignified treatment throughout the process and have the right to demand justice and answers about their loved ones’ disappearances.

Recent missing persons in Spain

• Adelino (81), Venta de Baños, Palencia
• Tim Paelinck (37), Casares, Málaga
• Jordi Espín Valles (55), Maracena, Granada
• Ion P. (63), Zaragoza
• Ángel P. M. (52), Marratxí, Islas Baleares
• Kimberly Queen Kalunga Lopez, Valdezorras, Sevilla
• Nuria de las Nieves (55), Sabadell, Barcelona
• Francisco Eduardo Garcia Arvelo (63), Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Each of these cases represents a person loved and missed by their families, highlighting the urgent need for continued efforts in search and awareness campaigns.

The plight of missing persons in Spain is a profound and multifaceted issue. While organisations like SOSDesaparecidos provide invaluable support, it is crucial for society as a whole to remain vigilant and proactive. Through collaborative efforts, increased awareness, and robust investigative processes, we can hope to bring more missing persons back to their families and ensure that no one disappears without a trace.

You can contact SOS Desaparecidos by 24 hour telephone on 649 952 957 or by email at info@sosdesaparecidos.es