Luis Manuel Díaz, father of Colombian-born Liverpool footballer Luis Díaz, has been released by left-wing guerrillas after being kidnapped 13 days ago, according to police sources and local media reports. The National Liberation Army (ELN) handed over Mr. Díaz to United Nations and Catholic church officials.
The abduction took place on October 28 in Barrancas, the family’s hometown. While Luis Díaz’s mother, Cilenis Marulanda, was freed within hours of the kidnapping, Mr. Díaz was held captive until his recent release. Authorities stated that Mr. Díaz is in good health, showing no signs of mistreatment.
Local media reported that Luis Manuel Díaz is en route to Valledupar, where he will undergo a medical examination before reuniting with his family. Tearful scenes unfolded in the neighborhood where the couple resides, with family members celebrating in Liverpool team shirts bearing Luis Díaz’s name and number 23.
The kidnapping occurred when the couple was accosted by gunmen at a petrol station in Barrancas. The kidnappers abandoned Luis Díaz’s mother as the police closed in but took away his father. Initially attributed to a criminal gang, the government delegation engaged in peace talks with the ELN later confirmed the rebel group’s involvement.
The ELN, Colombia’s main active guerrilla group, has been in conflict with the state since 1964 and is estimated to have around 2,500 members. Most active in the border region with Venezuela, where the Díaz family resides, the ELN continues to be a significant challenge for Colombian authorities.
