In a dramatic turn of events, police in Colombia have successfully detained four individuals suspected of being involved in the kidnapping of Luis Manuel Diaz, the father of Liverpool footballer Luis Diaz. The elder Diaz had been held captive for nearly two weeks by members of the ELN guerilla group. The abduction took place on October 28 at a gas station in the town of Barrancas, near the Venezuelan border.

The ELN, currently engaged in peace negotiations with the Colombian government, described the kidnapping as a “mistake” committed by one of its units. However, the authorities were quick to respond, and on Thursday, Luis Manuel Diaz was finally freed. His wife, Cilenis Marulanda, who had also been kidnapped alongside him, was successfully rescued just hours after the initial incident.

The National Police of Colombia released a statement on social media platform X, confirming the detention of the four suspects. The capture took place in the northern department of La Guajira, where the kidnapping occurred. The police revealed that the suspects possessed two firearms at the time of their arrest. Although the names of the detainees were not disclosed, it was stated that they were connected to a criminal group known as Los Primos. The exact nature of their affiliation with the ELN remains unclear.

Luis Manuel Diaz, fondly known as “Mane” locally, was not only the father of the Liverpool and Colombia striker but also the founder and amateur coach of the sole football academy in Barrancas. His dedication and guidance played a significant role in his son's rise to stardom. The kidnapping incident, which gained international attention, cast a shadow of concern over the Diaz family. In a heartfelt plea for his father's release, Luis Diaz wore a T-shirt during a Premier League soccer match that read "Freedom for Papa" in Spanish.

During a press conference, Luis Manuel Diaz Sr. recounted his harrowing experience, sharing that he had been held captive by two different groups throughout the ordeal. He noted a discernible change in his treatment after three days, leading him to believe that he had fallen into the hands of the ELN. The emotional toll of the situation was evident as Diaz Sr. expressed his gratitude for finally regaining his freedom.

The Colombian government, actively engaged in peace negotiations with the ELN, announced the release of Luis Manuel Diaz Sr. This news came as a relief for the Diaz family and supporters worldwide. The younger Diaz's appeal for his father's freedom, coupled with the global attention the case received, exerted significant pressure on the authorities to act swiftly.

Initially, the identity of the perpetrators was shrouded in mystery. However, the Colombian government eventually confirmed that the ELN was responsible for the abduction. The group, in an effort to rectify their mistake, ordered the release of Luis Manuel Diaz Sr. Unfortunately, logistical challenges, including military deployments in the region, initially hindered the planned release.

In response to these obstacles, the Colombian military made strategic adjustments to facilitate a safe release. Special forces were deployed, and a search operation was launched in the mountainous area spanning both Colombia and Venezuela, where Diaz Sr. was suspected to be held. The rugged terrain and dense cloud forest posed significant challenges for the authorities. In a bid to gather crucial information, the police announced a reward of $48,000.

Luis Diaz, an integral part of both Liverpool and Colombia's national team, is widely regarded as one of the most talented players in his country. His recent transfer to Liverpool, valued at $67 million, further highlights his exceptional abilities. As news of his father's release spread, a wave of relief swept over the football community, as they celebrated the safe return of Luis Manuel Diaz Sr. and expressed their unwavering support for the Diaz family.

The arrest of the four suspects offers hope that justice will be served, shedding light on the intricate web of criminal activities in the region. The Colombian government's ongoing peace negotiations with the ELN will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the country's efforts to combat such threats and ensure the safety of its citizens.