The defender Pedro Perlazafrom the professional club Dolphin adn former national team player Ecuadorwas released alive along with another person after being kidnapped near the border with Colombiawhere organized crime groups operate.
“They have been mistreated, but they are alive,” the colonel told the press. Diego Velasteguipolice chief of the oil port of Emeraldscapital of the province of the same name.
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He added that the rescue operation was carried out in the neighboring resort of Atacameswhere “when our units entered (…) they were received with bullets by these criminals.”
the agents “responded to these threats and these (kidnappers) fled the scene,” said Velasteguí, noting that “we presume that these criminals (…) are injured.”
Barefoot and with caps Anti-kidnapping Unit of the Ecuadorian policea (Unase), the two victims were handed over to their families in an event held at the Esmeraldas police command.
After investigative work of #PoliceEcuador and through armed confrontation in the Taseche compound, #Emeraldswe released Pedro P. and Juan M., victims of kidnapping for ransom, who were placed in safekeeping with their families.
➡️📰 More details in the #newsletter:… pic.twitter.com/ug6H5Svy83
— Ecuador Police (@PoliciaEcuador) December 5, 2024
On Tuesday, the Police indicated that the footballer’s relatives filed a complaint for the “alleged involuntary disappearance” of the right back.
Perlaza, from 33 yearshe disappeared domingo.
The player was summoned in 2020 to the Ecuadorian team when it was directed by the Argentine Gustavo Alfarowho took the tricolor to Qatar World Cup 2022in whose South American qualifiers the defence played in three games, including a friendly.
He was also national champion with Delfín (2019), his current team, and Aucas (2022).
the season of 2024 It ended for Perlaza last Saturday after Delfín finished twelfth among 16 clubs, with 31 points in 30 matches in the accumulated table.
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In recent years, Ecuador has faced an increase in violence linked to drug trafficking. The homicide rate in the country went from 6 per 100,000 inhabitants in 2018 to 47 in 2023.
Kidnappings, extortions, murders and prison massacres are frequent in ecuador, once considered an island of peace in the middle of Peru and Colombia, the largest cocaine producers in the world.
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What challenges do football players face off the pitch that could affect their careers?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Football Expert
Time.news Editor (TNE): Welcome to our special feature, where we explore recent developments in the world of football. Today, we’re discussing a remarkable story about Pedro Perlaza, the talented defender from the Ecuadorian professional club Dolphin. Joining me is Juan Ramirez,a respected football analyst and former player. Thank you for being here, Juan.
juan ramirez (JR): Thanks for having me! It’s a pleasure to discuss such an impactful moment in football.
TNE: Let’s dive right in. Pedro Perlaza was released alive after an intense situation. What can you tell us about the circumstances surrounding his release?
JR: It was indeed a shocking event. Reports suggest that Perlaza was involved in a very harrowing situation,reflecting challenges athletes can face off the pitch. Luckily, he emerged safely, which is a relief for his family, fans, and teammates.
TNE: It must have been a tense time for everyone associated with him. How do you think this experience will impact his career going forward?
JR: Situations like this can be transformative. Given that he’s a former national team player, the experience could instill a renewed sense of determination in him.He may come back with a stronger will to succeed,not just for himself but also as a role model for others in the sport.
TNE: That’s an interesting point. Athletes frequently enough carry the weight of expectations.In what ways can their personal experiences impact their performance on the field?
JR: Personal experiences deeply impact an athlete’s mental and emotional state. For Perlaza, overcoming such challenges may enhance his resilience and focus. Such experiences often bring about a new perspective on life and sport, possibly leading to better performance under pressure.
TNE: You mentioned resilience. It’s clear that athletes face numerous adversities. How important is mental health awareness in professional sports today?
JR: It’s crucial. Mental health awareness has grown significantly, helping destigmatize issues that many athletes face. Teams are now prioritizing mental wellness alongside physical training. This shift allows players like Perlaza to seek support when navigating personal struggles, ultimately benefiting their careers.
TNE: Absolutely. Turning back to Perlaza,what do you think the Dolphin club will do to support him as he transitions back to normalcy?
JR: Clubs often offer resources such as counseling,team support,and even public statements to show solidarity. With Perlaza being a valuable player, ensuring his well-being will likely be a top priority for Dolphin to help him reintegrate and regain confidence.
TNE: That’s encouraging to hear.what message do you think this situation sends to aspiring footballers in Ecuador and beyond?
JR: The situation teaches that no athlete is invincible; they all face challenges. However, resilience and support play meaningful roles in overcoming them. and for aspiring players, it’s a reminder to focus on mental strength as much as physical prowess.
TNE: Very insightful, Juan. Thank you for sharing yoru expertise on this poignant topic. We wish Pedro perlaza a smooth recovery and a successful return to football.
JR: Thank you! It’s an important story, and I’m hopeful for what’s next for him.
TNE: And thank you to our readers for tuning in. we will continue to follow Pedro Perlaza’s journey and the broader impacts of mental health awareness in sports. Stay with us for more updates!