In the northern regions of Colombia, the search intensifies for the abducted father of Liverpool forward Luis Diaz, as authorities deploy resources in a mountain range shared with Venezuela.
The abduction occurred at a petrol station in Barrancas, where armed men on motorcycles seized Luis Manuel Diaz and his wife.
Luis’s mother, Cilenis Marulanda, was swiftly rescued by local police, who set up roadblocks near the Colombia-Venezuela border. However, Luis’s father remains missing, prompting air and land patrols and involving special forces in the search efforts.
To encourage information leading to the father’s safe return, a reward of $48,000 (£39,000) has been offered by the police. Authorities are considering the possibility that he may have been taken into Venezuela, beyond the reach of Colombian law enforcement.
Colombian Police Director General William Salamanca visited the operation, commending the bravery and commitment of the commandos involved.
FIFA and the Colombia Football Federation have provided support to Luis Diaz, who has been granted compassionate leave by Liverpool. Manager Jurgen Klopp noted that preparation for a recent game had been particularly challenging due to the circumstances.
Liverpool assistant manager Pep Lijnders expressed the club’s full support for Diaz during this difficult time and highlighted the efforts being made on his behalf.
The abduction has stirred significant concern in Colombian society, as these events have been rarer in recent years, with the country working to overcome its past struggles with kidnapping.
Luiz Diaz's mother was freed by police when kidnapped by armed men.. pic.twitter.com/GiHZABSbAl
— FOOTBALLFANSSTUFF (@officialffsnews) October 29, 2023
