As Liverpool’s Luis Diaz tied the game against Luton, his jersey displayed a poignant plea: “Freedom for Papa.” This emotional act came amidst the tense backdrop of his father’s abduction by the ELN—a situation that has led the kidnappers to insist on “security guarantees” before considering his father’s freedom.
The ELN, which has admitted to holding Diaz’s father, has voiced concerns through Colombian press that the persistent search efforts by military and police units might hinder a swift and secure release, thereby escalating danger.
On October 28, Luis Manuel Diaz and his spouse were forcefully abducted in Barrancas, Colombia. While his mother was later left in a vehicle as law enforcement approached, his father remains captive.
Luis Diaz, who represents Colombia at the international level, has issued a heartfelt appeal to the abductors for the immediate release of his father, citing the excruciating wait the family is enduring.
In his first appearance for Liverpool since the abduction, coming off the bench, Diaz secured a crucial goal during stoppage time at Luton, not just salvaging a point for his team but also bringing attention to his father’s plight.
The ELN has professed its intention to free Mr. Diaz’s father at the earliest opportunity but contends that the operations by Colombian authorities are a barrier. Commander Jose Manuel Martinez Quiroz specified that while the group is actively trying to avert clashes with government forces, the heavy military presence, with ongoing troop movements and reward announcements, is complicating the quick and safe execution of their release strategy.
“We are fully aware of the distress this is causing the Diaz Marulanda family. We aim to honor our commitment to release him unilaterally, once we can ensure the safety of the operation,” stated the ELN in a communiqué.
The seizure of Diaz’s parents by the armed guerrilla group in La Guajira province has sparked a major search response, with the Colombian government deploying extensive military and police resources.
Diaz, aged 26, had not played for Liverpool since their Europa League encounter with Toulouse on October 26. His return to the field against Luton was marked by his touching gesture after scoring—a message calling for his father’s liberation.
In an earnest statement, Diaz pleaded, “I implore his immediate release, with his well-being intact, ending this agonizing ordeal. We call for a reconsideration out of love and mercy, to reunite him with us.”
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Luis Diaz father kidnapping
What happened to Luis Diaz’s father?
Luis Diaz’s father, Luis Manuel Diaz, was kidnapped at gunpoint by the ELN rebel group in Barrancas, Colombia, on October 28. His mother was released shortly after, but his father remains in captivity.
What are the ELN kidnappers demanding for the release of Luis Diaz’s father?
The ELN kidnappers are demanding “security guarantees” from Colombian authorities before they release Luis Diaz’s father. They claim that the ongoing military and police search operations are hindering a safe and quick release.
How has Luis Diaz responded to his father’s kidnapping?
Luis Diaz has publicly called for the immediate release of his father, highlighting the distress and painful wait his family is enduring. He also made a statement on the field by revealing a T-shirt with the message “freedom for papa” after scoring a goal for Liverpool.
Has Luis Diaz played for Liverpool since the kidnapping of his father?
Yes, Luis Diaz returned to play for Liverpool in their match against Luton Town, where he scored a stoppage-time goal to equalize the game. This was his first match since the kidnapping incident.
What has the ELN said about their intentions regarding the hostage?
The ELN has stated their intention to release Luis Diaz’s father “as soon as possible” but emphasized that the release plan cannot be executed swiftly and safely due to the current scale of search operations by the Colombian government.
Where can I follow the latest news on Liverpool and Luis Diaz?
You can follow the latest Liverpool news, analysis, and fan views by staying updated with news notifications and listening to the latest episodes of The Red Kop podcast. The coverage of Liverpool is extensive and designed to ensure fans never miss any important updates.
More about Luis Diaz father kidnapping
- Luis Diaz’s Public Appeal for Father’s Release
- Understanding the ELN’s Demands
- Luis Diaz’s Emotional Goal Celebration
- Updates on the Search Operations in Colombia
- Liverpool’s Response and Support for Diaz
- Latest from The Red Kop Podcast on Luis Diaz
- Comprehensive Coverage of Liverpool FC
