Elieth Samara was abducted when she was just 19 days old. For 33 long hours, her mother Nayelly lived a nightmare until she was reunited with her daughter thanks to the tireless investigation of ICMEC and our allies around the globe. Watch this powerful story of heartbreak and hope.
Once Elieth Samara was reported missing, ICMEC served as the on-the-ground advisor in the investigation. For 33 hours, ICMEC coordinated with dozens of partners from the U.S. Embassy, the Civil National Police, the Public Ministry in Guatemala, Alba-Keneth Alerts, and Facebook. These front-line child protection heroes acted swiftly and in coordination thanks to the training, technology and inter-agency collaboration that has been fostered for more than a decade.
“I hope the organization keeps growing, keeps giving their all. They are people I will never forget for the rest of my life.”Nayelly, Elieth Samara's mother
While Elieth has been safely reunited with her mother, our work is not done. More than a million children like her are reported missing each year around the world – and many more are victims of abuse and exploitation. That’s why ICMEC remains dedicated to continuing our work, because one child missing, abused, or exploited is one too many.