ELN Guerrilla Group's Military Operations Prevent Release of Luis Diaz's Kidnapped Father in Colombia
The ELN guerrilla group in Colombia claims that ongoing military operations are preventing the release of Luis Diaz's father, who has been kidnapped since October 28
The Colombian guerrilla group, known as ELN, stated that military operations make it difficult to release Luis Díaz's father, Luis Manuel Díaz, who has been kidnapped since October 28. In a statement on Monday, the group expressed their intention to release him but expressed concern about potential clashes with the official forces due to the presence of military troops in an undisclosed area.
Luis Manuel Díaz was abducted in Barrancas, a small town in La Guajira department, located in northern Colombia.
The guerrilla group mentioned that the "region" where they carry out operations continues to be heavily militarized, with military aircraft flying above and troops stationed on the ground.
The statement indicated that the current situation hinders the quick and safe execution of the release plan, ensuring the absence of any risk to Mr. Luis Manuel Díaz.
Colombia's military officials later announced on Monday that their troops, who were involved in the search operation, were instructed to relocate in order to ensure the safety of Díaz and facilitate his release.
The player's father, along with his wife Cilenis Marulanda, was abducted while driving in Barrancas. Despite authorities' efforts, only Marulanda was eventually released. Following his goal for Liverpool in the Premier League on Sunday, the player lifted his jersey, revealing an undershirt with the message "freedom for dad" written on it.
He subsequently turned to the social platform known as "X," previously known as Twitter, in order to express: "I dedicate this goal to the liberation of my father and all those who have been abducted in my country."
The abduction has prompted numerous protests in Colombia, calling for the release of Diaz's father.
Family and friends of DÃaz in Colombia held a demonstration asking for the release of DÃaz's father.
Lismari Machado/AFP/Getty Images
Meanwhile, Diazs international teammate James RodrÃguez has offered his support on social media.
"We stand by you, @LuisFDiaz19, during these challenging times," he shared on X, previously known as Twitter. "We urge for respect and solidarity... Let freedom be granted to your father and all those who have been taken captive!"
Diaz, the esteemed Liverpool forward, holds a significant position in the Colombian national soccer team.
Colombia's Ombudsman's Office, the Catholic Church, and the International Red Cross have volunteered to serve as guarantors for the release of Luis Manuel Díaz.
Being one of the country's oldest and largest guerrilla groups, the ELN continues to operate in Colombia. In June 2023, both the group and the Colombian Government reached an agreement to establish a bilateral six-month ceasefire, which commenced on August 3, in order to facilitate peace negotiations.
