Mexico families intensify searches for disappeared youths in Veracruz and Puebla

Members of the collective “Luz de Esperanza” are conducting a live‑search in Veracruz’s historic port for two young men from Jalisco who were victims of forced disappearance. Carlos Maximiliano Romero Meza vanished on 22 October 2020 in Zapopan, Jalisco, and Héctor Daniel Flores Fernández was taken from his home in Guadalajara on 18 May 2021. Their families have posted search notices throughout the city, citing possible cartel transport to Veracruz and a recruitment route that also passes through Tamaulipas. The National Search Commission is assisting the effort, and the collective urges anyone with information to call a dedicated hotline.

In Puebla, a separate case has drawn attention as the mother of a missing girl named Karla protests alleged abandonment by authorities, while the state records 807 disappearance cases under Governor Alejandro Armenta Mier. Officials have also issued a search warrant for Stefano Evani Molina, reported missing in Huejotzingo. Both regions highlight ongoing concerns over forced disappearances and alleged cartel involvement across Mexico.