Father of Liverpool winger Luis Diaz, Luis Manuel Díaz Jimenez, has been released today following a 12-day ordeal after being kidnapped by ELN guerrillas in Colombia.
Footage revealed helicopters circling the border area between La Guajira and Cesar, where the UN committee successfully secured the release of the 58-year-old from the ELN guerrillas.
A commission from the United Nations and the Catholic Church played a crucial role in liaising with the ELN for Luis Diaz’s father’s release.
The helicopter, stationed at Valledupar airport, transported him to a hospital for a checkup, with only humanitarian workers and the helicopter crew on board.
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Government’s role and reward offered
The Colombian government, actively involved in the operation, had offered a reward of $200,000,000 Pesos (£40,600) for Diaz’s return.
The delay in his release may be attributed to internal conflicts within the rebel group regarding the ransom.
Luis Manuel Díaz Jimenez was abducted at gunpoint alongside his wife on October 28 in Barrancas. His release followed a week-long hunt in the mountainous Serranía del Perijá area.
The kidnapping sparked outrage in Colombia, with Luis Diaz being a beloved figure in the country. Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp dedicated a Premier League victory to Díaz, emphasizing solidarity with the player during this challenging time.
Military withdrawal and search operations
The Colombian military withdrew its troops from the area surrounding the guerrillas’ jungle lair, facilitating the release. Approximately 200 men involved in the search in the Perija Mountains were redirected to Barrancas after the confirmation of Diaz’s release.
Coronel Giovanni Montanez stated, “The troops that are taking part in the search operation for Luis Manuel Diaz are being ordered to carry out a repositioning to give guarantees for the handover of this hostage.
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