Colombian authorities have apprehended four individuals suspected of being involved in the kidnapping of Luis Manuel Diaz, the father of Liverpool footballer Luis Diaz. The National Police of Colombia announced the arrests on Saturday, following Diaz’s release on Thursday.
Luis Manuel Diaz was abducted by armed individuals on motorcycles at a gas station in Barrancas, a town near the Venezuelan border. He was held hostage for nearly two weeks by members of the ELN guerrilla group, which is currently engaged in peace negotiations with the Colombian government and has declared a six-month ceasefire since August. The ELN described the kidnapping as a “mistake.”
The police captured the suspects in La Guajira, the northern department where the kidnapping occurred, and found them in possession of two firearms. Their identities have not been disclosed, but they are reported to be members of a criminal group known as Los Primos. The connection between this group and the ELN remains unclear.
Luis Manuel Diaz’s wife, Cilenis Marulanda, was also abducted during the incident but was rescued within hours. Luis Manuel Diaz, popularly known as “Mane,” is an amateur coach and the founder of the only football academy in Barrancas. He played a significant role in nurturing the talents of his son, who has risen to prominence as a striker for Liverpool and the Colombian national team.
Diaz Sr. shared his experiences with reporters on Friday, revealing that he was held by two different groups during his captivity. He noticed a change in treatment and communication after three days, leading him to believe he was then in the hands of the ELN.
