Liverpool footballer Luis Díaz’s father has been freed by the left-wing guerrilla group that kidnapped him in northern Colombia.Luis Manuel Díaz was handed over to a humanitarian commission composed of the Catholic Church and the United Nations representatives. He was in captive for 12 days by the National Liberation Army (ELN), Colombia’s largest active rebel group.
He was abducted on October 28 along with his wife, Cilenis Marulanda, in their hometown of Barrancas. Marulanda was freed hours later, but Díaz was taken away by the armed men on a motorcycle.The kidnapping sparked outrage and concern in Colombia and around the world.
Luis Díaz is one of the most popular and talented players in the national team and at Liverpool.The 26-year-old winger scored a goal in Liverpool’s 1-all draw with Luton on Sunday and lifted his shirt to reveal a message in Spanish that read “freedom for papa”.
The National Liberation Army (ELN) admitted to the kidnapping and said it was a mistake. However, the release was delayed by the presence of the military in the area, which the rebels accused of endangering the hostage.
The Colombian government condemned the kidnapping as a “vile and cowardly act” that violated the human rights of Díaz.
On Thursday, Díaz was flown by a military helicopter to the city of Valledupar, where he underwent a medical check-up and was reunited with his relatives. Local media reported that he was in good health and showed no signs of mistreatment.When he got home, he was welcomed by his jubilant family and neighbours with banners and balloons. After stepping out, he broke down, and his family also sobbed as they embraced each other.
“Thanks to God for this second opportunity to bring me back home, and thanks to all the people of Barrancas, La Guajira, and Colombia for the immense support they have given to my family.”Liverpool also expressed its delight on social media and thanked all those involved in securing Díaz’s release.
“We are delighted by the news of [Luis Díaz’s] father’s safe return, and we thank all those involved in securing his release,” the club said on Twitter.
Source iHarare.com