In a heartwarming development, Liverpool FC's Luis Diaz has been reunited with his father, Luis Manuel Diaz, after a harrowing 12-day kidnapping ordeal. The Colombian Football Federation shared an emotional video capturing the moment of their reunion, highlighting the intense emotions surrounding the incident.
Luis Diaz Sr., aged 58, was abducted on October 28 while at a gas station with his wife in Barrancas, a rural municipality in Colombia's La Guajira province. The kidnapping was executed by the leftist National Liberation Army (ELN), a group that later released Diaz Sr.'s wife as police intensified their pursuit. Despite the traumatic experience, Diaz Sr. has expressed his determination to remain in Colombia, stating his desire to continue living in his hometown where his family resides.
During the kidnapping, Luis Diaz remained in Liverpool, contributing to his team's success until the Premier League win over Brentford. He then traveled to Colombia for a World Cup qualifier against Brazil, all the while grappling with the personal crisis unfolding back home. Diaz's father, after being released, spoke of the grueling conditions he endured, including extensive walking and lack of sleep in mountainous terrain.
The Colombian police, in coordination with British authorities, arrested four individuals allegedly responsible for the kidnapping. The group involved, "Los Primos," was dismantled as a result of this coordinated effort. Initially, a criminal gang was suspected, but later it was confirmed by the government that the ELN was behind the kidnapping. The ELN's leader acknowledged the abduction as a mistake, despite their earlier ceasefire agreement.
Luis Diaz, who was advised to stay in Liverpool for safety reasons during the ordeal, received immense support from his team and manager Jurgen Klopp. Following the news of his father's release, Diaz displayed a poignant message during a match, revealing a t-shirt with the words "freedom for papa." Klopp expressed relief and happiness for Diaz, acknowledging the positive timing of his father's release despite Liverpool's subsequent loss in a Europa League match.
Following the international break, Liverpool, now in a strong position in the Premier League, is set to face Manchester City in a crucial match. The club expressed its delight and gratitude for Luis Diaz Sr.'s safe return, emphasizing the collective relief felt by the team and its supporters.
This story is not just about the resilience of a family but also highlights the spirit of unity and support within the football community, especially in times of personal crises. As Luis Diaz continues to shine on the field, his off-field ordeal and subsequent reunion with his father remind us of the human aspects that persist behind professional achievements.
