Liverpool Winger’s Father Kidnapped in Colombia: Intensive Search Operation Underway
Colombia has launched a massive manhunt after Luis Manuel Diaz, the father of Liverpool winger Luis Diaz, was kidnapped in the town of Barrancas near the Venezuelan border. The incident occurred on Saturday when armed men on motorcycles abducted Mr. Diaz and his wife, Cilenis Marulanda, at a gas station. Fortunately, Marulanda has since been released, but Diaz’s whereabouts remain unknown.
Authorities in Colombia have initiated a comprehensive investigation into the kidnapping, although they have been tight-lipped about specific details. Security camera footage captured a high-end pickup truck and a motorbike in the vicinity, providing valuable leads for law enforcement agencies.
President Gustavo Petro confirmed that Diaz’s mother was successfully rescued soon after the incident, but the search for her husband continues. The operation involves a large number of police officers, soldiers, commandos, cartographers, judicial police, and specialized search and rescue pilots, totaling at least 200 personnel.
While addressing the media, Attorney General Francisco Barbosa mentioned the possibility of Diaz being in Venezuela, but no further information was provided. General William Salamanca, the police chief, stated that his officers were conducting a meticulous search, going from house to house to collect relevant information.
To aid in the investigation, Colombian authorities have offered a reward of approximately $48,000 for any information leading to Diaz’s location. Deputy police director General Nicolas Zapata revealed that investigators possessed some information regarding individuals that may be connected to the incident, suggesting careful planning by the kidnappers.
Colonel Giovanni Montanez, director of the elite military unit against kidnapping and extortion, disclosed that no ransom demands or calls had been received thus far. Colombia is working with the Interpol office in Venezuela to coordinate the search efforts.
Barrancas, with its population of 38,000, is located in a region of Colombia known for criminal groups, paramilitary fighters, dissidents from the former FARC armed group, and ELN guerrillas. Diaz’s mother, who was freed, could not provide specific details about their captors.
Luis Manuel Diaz, a former amateur coach, played a pivotal role in his son’s rise to prominence in the world of football. Known as Lucho, Luis Diaz became the first Indigenous Colombian to excel at the highest level of the sport. He has represented his country 43 times and transferred to Liverpool from Porto last year, contributing three goals in the 11 matches he has played for the prestigious English club.
The news of the elder Diaz’s kidnapping has deeply saddened and dismayed those in Barrancas who knew him as a humble and respected individual. Residents expressed their solidarity with the Diaz family during this challenging time.
Colombia has witnessed approximately 38,000 kidnappings over the past six decades, often perpetrated by armed groups seeking funds through ransom payments. This incident once again highlights the need for enhanced security measures and efforts to combat such criminal activities.
As the search for Luis Manuel Diaz intensifies, the hope remains that he will be located soon and safely reunited with his family. The international football community stands in solidarity, offering support and prayers for his swift and secure return.
