The operation to withdraw troops from the border area with Venezuela began to create favorable conditions for the release of Luis Manuel Diaz, father of Colombian national team player Luis Diaz.

The kidnappers who held the father of Liverpool striker Luis Diaz made a request for security to effect the victim’s release. The kidnappers called on the Colombian government to stop security operations so they could carry out the release. Luis Diaz’s father was kidnapped nine days ago by the left-wing rebel group ELN in Colombia. This group pledged to release the Liverpool star’s father but has not yet done so and continues to maintain peace negotiations with the Colombian government.

The ELN spoke of a release process being activated immediately, but several days have passed and no one has contacted the Humanitarian Committee that is ready to receive Mr. Diaz. Not only does ELN not want to release the famous footballer’s father, but nearly 50 kidnapped people are still under their guard. His mother, Cilenis Marulanda, was released the same night his parents were kidnapped off the streets.

I beg to release my father immediately, respect his integrity and end this agonizing wait as soon as possible. In the name of love and compassion, we ask ELN to reconsider its actions. I thank the Colombian people and the international community for the support received, for the many expressions of affection and solidarity in this difficult time in which many families in my country have to live.”

Responding to Diaz’s call, the kidnappers blamed the Colombian government for complicating matters with security operations, including the occupation of areas such as the Perija Mountains, in the La Guajira region, Diaz family’s hometown.

One of the ELN leaders, commander Jose Manuel Martinez Quiroz, said the guerrilla group would keep its promise to release victims, but requested a halt to security operations to avoid delays: “Since November 2, we have announce the decision to release Mr. Luis Manuel Diaz and begin the process to complete this as soon as possible. We are working to avoid incidents with government forces.