One of the most frightening football stories in recent weeks has come to a merciful end as Mexico and Olympiacos striker Alan Pulido was rescued 24 hours after he and girlfriend were kidnapped.
According to The Guardian, Pulido was rescued in a joint operation by state and federal forces on Sunday night. The former UNAL superstar was abducted along with his girlfriend on the way back from a party in Ciudad Victoria after being forcefully removed from his car. The girlfriend was later released.
Ciudad Victoria is a somewhat volatile city that is considered a fighting ground for Mexican cartel factions. Abductions in the city have reportedly increased 360% between 2010 and 2015.
Nationwide, Mexico has struggled to keep up with kidnappings and abductions over the past few years. Official numbers are believed to be lower than the reality since many go unreported. Survery statistics revealed that in 2014 alone the country faced 83,000 to 116,000 kidnappings.
Per the source, Pulido underwent health examinations after the rescue. He was photographed with a bandaged right hand.
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