BTN News: In a shocking incident that has gripped the border town of Maicao, La Guajira, Colombian-Lebanese businessman Walid Dasuki was kidnapped by heavily armed men in broad daylight on Saturday, September 14, 2024. Dasuki, the owner of the ‘Mundo Dakar’ store, was forcibly taken by a group of eight men dressed in black and armed with high-caliber weapons. The kidnappers fled the scene in a white vehicle, commonly known as a ‘copetrana’, leaving the local community in fear and authorities scrambling for answers. In response, a massive search operation involving specialized units from the National Police and the Army has been launched to locate Dasuki and bring his abductors to justice.
Kidnapping Details Emerge Amidst Growing Concerns
At approximately 8:40 a.m., Walid Dasuki was at his commercial establishment ‘Mundo Dakar’ in Maicao’s bustling center, located on Carrera 10 between Calles 12 and 13, when the abduction took place. Eyewitnesses reported that a group of eight men, heavily armed and dressed in black, stormed the store, forced Dasuki into a white ‘copetrana’ vehicle, and sped away toward an unknown location.
Local authorities confirmed the account, with footage from nearby security cameras capturing the vehicle leaving the scene. The situation has sparked intense concern, especially due to the proximity to the Venezuelan border, prompting fears that the kidnappers may try to flee the country with their captive.
Swift Response from Authorities: Multi-Agency Operation Underway
Immediately following the incident, a high-level security meeting was convened by the Governor of La Guajira and the Mayor of Maicao. A reward of 100 million pesos (approximately $25,000 USD) has been announced for any information leading to the rescue of Walid Dasuki or the capture of those responsible for the kidnapping.
Specialized units from the National Police, including the Antisecuestro y Antiextorsión Group, the Criminal Investigation Section, and the Special Operations Group, have been deployed. The Army has also joined the search in the rural areas surrounding Maicao. A security cordon has been established to prevent the kidnappers from crossing into Venezuela, with additional reinforcements expected to arrive shortly.
Family Appeals for Public Support and Information
Dasuki’s family, including his uncle, former mayor Monahad Dasuki, have made emotional appeals via social media, urging the public to provide any information that could help secure his release. “I trust in God and our public forces. We hope to have our nephew back with us soon,” Monahad Dasuki expressed in a heartfelt message.
The family remains hopeful yet anxious as the hours pass, emphasizing the importance of community cooperation in providing leads that may aid in Walid’s safe return.
Search Intensifies: Advanced Technology and Resources Deployed
As part of the ongoing operation, specialized teams from the Gaula unit of the Police are en route to Maicao, equipped with advanced technology and aerial support, including a helicopter, to enhance the search efforts. The Attorney General’s Office has also assigned a dedicated team to support the investigation, aiming to gather critical evidence and track the kidnappers’ movements.
A multi-layered security plan is in place, incorporating checkpoints, roadblocks, and air surveillance to close off any potential escape routes for the abductors.
High-Stakes Situation Raises Questions and Concerns
The kidnapping of Walid Dasuki, a well-known figure in the region, has raised numerous questions about the motives behind the crime and the possible involvement of organized crime or cross-border elements. The authorities are exploring all angles, from local criminal groups to potential ransom demands.
Residents in the area have expressed fears about their safety, calling for increased police presence and security measures to prevent further incidents.
Community Rallies for Justice as Investigation Unfolds
As the investigation progresses, local businesses and community members are rallying around the Dasuki family, offering support and sharing information with the authorities. A palpable sense of urgency and solidarity has enveloped the town of Maicao, with many hoping for a swift resolution to the harrowing situation.
Authorities urge anyone with relevant information to come forward, reinforcing their commitment to uncovering the truth and ensuring the safe return of Walid Dasuki.
Call to Action: Reward Offered for Crucial Information
The government of La Guajira has reaffirmed its commitment to finding Walid Dasuki and has reiterated the reward of 100 million pesos for information that leads to his rescue or the capture of the kidnappers. The community is encouraged to provide any details that may aid in the ongoing search operation.
Conclusion: Hope Amid Uncertainty
As the search for Walid Dasuki continues, the residents of Maicao remain hopeful for his safe return. The authorities, armed with advanced technology and community support, are determined to bring those responsible to justice and restore peace to this border town.
