:quality(80)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/semana/IXRNBEWN6RBT3MYWCSIOV7TEII.jpeg)
Football Player’s Father Speaks Out About His Kidnapping Ordeal
This Friday, following his release, Luis Manuel Diaz, the father of Colombian football player Luis Diaz, opened up about his harrowing experience at the hands of the ELN guerrillas. Reflecting on the situation from his home in Barrancas, La Guajira, he shared his thoughts on the ordeal.
A Terrifying Experience
‘Mane’ Diaz, as he is popularly known, revealed that no ransom was demanded for his release during the twelve days he was held captive. He expressed gratitude that everything was resolved legally and without any financial demands. Diaz, who is involved in sports training in his municipality, emphasized his commitment to working in the region and supporting youth projects.
A Father’s Perspective
“There were no resources offered, no need for them. Everything was done legally, thanks to God. I never thought I would die, but I couldn’t help but think about it,” the football player’s father confessed.
Trusting in the Government
Despite the traumatic experience, Diaz believes that no one intends to tarnish the country’s reputation. He has faith in the government’s ability to provide protection and security.
No Motive for the Kidnapping
Diaz maintains that there were no family problems or personal conflicts that could have led to his kidnapping. He describes himself as a hardworking and dedicated individual, with a hopeful and promising future.
A Glimpse into Captivity
Accompanied by his wife, Cilenis Marulanda, Diaz recounted the days he spent in captivity. He initially suffered from food scarcity but noticed a change in treatment after being handed over to the ELN. He felt pressured by the circumstances and unfamiliar with the situation.
Near the Venezuelan Border
Diaz recalls being close to the Venezuelan border during his ordeal. He expressed concern for others who might find themselves in a similar situation and hopes that no one else will have to experience what he went through.
A Message of Peace
Diaz also sent a message to all those involved in the armed conflict in Colombia, urging for a peaceful resolution. He emphasized the importance of living in harmony, feeling secure with family, and working together for a brighter future.
A Life-Altering Journey
Diaz described the extensive days spent in the Serranía del Perijá. He walked a lot, rested very little, and encountered mountains he had never seen before. He expressed his desire for no one else to go through the same mountains in the situation he experienced, envisioning a future of peace and freedom.
:quality(75)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/elcomercio/2QCZ4HQKFJF7VNPWPQK3QPZBBE.jpg)
/cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/diarioas/T47CMTZL4566QA5TUNKKLEKM4M.jpg)
2 Responses
This heart-wrenching account sheds light on the harsh reality faced by families of public figures in Colombia. The courage and determination of Luis Díaz’s father to speak out about his son’s kidnapping by ELN Guerrilla is both admirable and gut-wrenching.
It’s heart-wrenching to hear about Luis Díaz’s father’s kidnapping by the ELN Guerrilla. The emotional turmoil and fear that families go through in such situations is unimaginable. My thoughts are with them, and I hope they find strength and support during this difficult time.