Atletico Madrid defender’s family raided by armed assailants

Atletico Madrid Defender’s Family Survives Traumatic Robbery

The family of Atletico Madrid defender Nahuel Molina recently experienced a harrowing incident in their native Argentina. Thankfully, they emerged physically unscathed from a shocking series of events.

The terrifying ordeal unfolded at the residence of Molina’s father-in-law, Claudio Occhiuzzi, who narrated the incident on Argentinian television. According to reports, a group of eight individuals wearing masks stormed into their home brandishing guns, instilling fear in the family members, including Claudio, his wife, and their 10-year-old twins.

Police Intervention Leads to Shootout

Claudio revealed that the intruders threatened him at gunpoint, demanding to know the whereabouts of cash, indicating a premeditated attack. Fortunately, the situation took a turn when law enforcement arrived on the scene, enabling Claudio to help the assailants escape through the back exit. A dramatic shootout ensued between the police and the criminals, resulting in the arrest of three suspects, while the authorities continue their investigation.

Describing the chaotic scene, Claudio recalled, “When they crossed the dining room door, they started shooting at the police. There were more than ten or fifteen shots. It was a moment of sheer panic; I feared for my life as they threatened me with the gun, thinking I had alerted the authorities.”

He added, “As they tried to flee through the back, I accompanied them and struggled to open the gate, with the revolver pointed at my head. The tension was palpable, and I feared for the worst.”

Rising Concerns for Footballer Safety

Incidents like these highlight the growing threats faced by footballers and their families from organized criminal activities. Notably, former Barcelona player Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and his family fell victim to an armed robbery during his time in Catalonia, underscoring the vulnerability of high-profile athletes.

In a similar vein, Luis Diaz’s father was abducted in a separate incident, shedding light on the dangers faced by footballers and their loved ones. With their schedules and locations often public knowledge, athletes become prime targets for robberies, especially when they are away from home.