The Kidnap, Rescue Of Liverpool Player Luis Diaz’s Father

Josher Jesus Brito Diaz received an unexpected call on his phone, a momentary distraction from his bustling life as the overseer of his cousin’s charity, the Luis Diaz Esperanza Foundation. This responsibility, coupled with being a part of the inner circle of Liverpool’s esteemed winger, keeps him constantly engaged.

Such is the reality of belonging to La Guajira’s foremost family, hailing from the remote region in northern Colombia and claiming Luis Diaz as its most illustrious figure. Sunday, October 29, marked a pivotal day for Josher’s uncle Gaby, contending for a council seat in Barrancas, a town overshadowed by the Cerrejon open-cast coal mine, where both Josher and his footballer cousin were born.

The preceding day had been a flurry of activities for Josher—shuttling, organizing logistics, and assisting Diaz’s parents, Luis Manuel Diaz and Cilenis Marulanda. Preparations for the impending elections were in full swing, with Josher occupied with logistical arrangements and transportation to polling stations. However, an incessantly ringing phone diverted his attention. Half an hour later, when he finally answered, the news shattered his routine: “Your uncle Luis has been kidnapped.”

Over the subsequent 12 days, Josher stepped into the role of a mediator between the police and the Diaz family, embroiled in what became one of the most significant stories in Colombia and world football. Not all such stories culminate happily, but on Thursday, November 9, Luis Manuel was released by the ELN (National Liberation Army/Ejercito de Liberacion Nacional), a left-wing guerrilla group labeled a terrorist organization by Colombia, the United States, and the United Nations.

This week, as the national team readies to host Brazil in a World Cup qualifying tie in Barranquilla, Diaz returns to Colombia for the first time since the kidnapping. His father, Mane, previously sold street food to fund his son’s test drives into the city. Luis Manuel remained in Barrancas despite his son’s success, establishing a small football school for the children of Cerrejon miners. Over time, the initiative expanded to about 15 programs.

Following his son, Luis Manuel became one of the region’s most respected and prominent figures, garnering public support during the search and celebration of his rescue. Luis Manuel’s brief, tearful press conference last Friday highlighted the ordeal, saying these were “very difficult times” and highlighting his experience of excessive walking. Now, for the first time, the family is revealing details about the kidnapping and release. It involves arduous treks through the jungle on mules and stolen motorcycles and tense negotiations.

The kidnapping of Luis Manuel and Silenis near a gas station dramatically escalated into a chase as Josha and his family were mobilized. A frantic search began, using various strategies with the help of authorities and friends to find the kidnapper. Police found Silenis in the abandoned car 90 minutes later, but Luis Manuel was still missing.

According to Josher, the groups initially responsible for the kidnapping were the ELN and other “common criminals.” Kidnappings have surged in Colombia, especially in La Guajira, owing to its isolation and proximity to the Venezuelan border, exploited by criminal gangs and guerrilla groups for escape and operations. Josher’s account unfolds a harrowing tale of Luis Manuel’s journey deeper into the mountains, from being forced into a car to riding mules and traversing rough terrains.

The situation intensified as the military took over the search operation, disallowing the family’s direct involvement. The days that followed were filled with anxiety and uncertainty, exacerbated by the international attention drawn to the case during the country’s elections. Meanwhile, Diaz, miles away in the UK, was kept informed by relatives, opting to stay put at the advice of the police, missing a match and eventually returning to the squad after the nerve-racking days. Supported by Liverpool throughout, Diaz acknowledged the fans’ unwavering support upon his return to the team, expressing gratitude for the solidarity shown by lifting his jersey during a match to reveal a T-shirt bearing the words “Libertad Para Papa” (Freedom for Dad).

In the remote jungle, Luis Manuel continued his treacherous journey, blindfolded, navigating precarious paths, and encountering the ELN after three days, a significant shift in his captors. The guerrilla force intercepted him from the initial criminals, displaying better treatment thereafter.

Luiz Diaz and father

The ELN, embroiled in a prolonged struggle against the Colombian government, initially unaware of their captive’s identity, sought safety guarantees for his release, leading to negotiations and eventual liberation. The rescue operation orchestrated by a humanitarian commission marked a turning point.

The remote mountain location served as a transit point that culminated in the release of Luis Manuel and the emotional reunion of father and son at the Colombian training camp in Barranquilla. For almost two weeks, the focus has shifted from the world-famous footballer to his father, with Luis Manuel stepping back from the spotlight to continue to inspire the son he once coached.