5Luis Diaz with his mum CIlenis and dad Luis ManuelCredit: Not known, clear with picture desk

5Luis Diaz in acion for Liverpool in August 2022Credit: PA

5New father Diaz got engaged to his girlfriend Gera Ponce in July this yearCredit: instagram/@luisdiaz19_

The 26-year-old’s parents were at a petrol station in their home town of Barrancas when they were approached by two armed men, according to W Radio.

A desperate search for Luis Manuel Díaz and Cilenis Marulanda was been launched by the director of police General William Salamanca.

Later it was reported Cilenis had been found safe and taken into police protection.

But the footballer’s dad was still missing amid a huge search involving Colombia’s army.

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Diaz’s parents are thought to have been travelling to the Los Olivos neighbourhood in a van they owned on Saturday.

Some reports suggest there was an exchange of gunfire, although this has not been officially confirmed.

The cops are said to have initiated a so-called “Padlock Plan”, sealing off the town.

Diala Wilches, the governor of La Guajira, said in a statement: “I reject and condemn the kidnapping of the parents of Luis Diaz, Luis Manuel Díaz and Cilenis Marulanda, in events that occurred in Barrancas today.

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Atletico Junior sent him on loan to Barranquilla, where he was put on a special diet to gain 10kg.

Diaz crossed the Atlantic to join Porto in 2019, before moving to Liverpool in January 2022.

5Diaz appeals for a penalty during the game against Everton last weekCredit: Reuters

5Diaz in action against Brighton earlier this mont