In a daring operation, the Deputy Chief of Police in Montevideo, Carlos Rodríguez, recounted the dramatic events surrounding the kidnapping of a teenager in the Punta Carretas area. The situation unfolded early on a Friday morning, around 7 am, when a 28-year-old man with a history of run-ins with the law approached the young victim. The assailant, who had prior convictions, demanded that the teenager hand over their backpack and waist pack, which contained a debit card and a cell phone.
According to Rodríguez, the kidnapper then inquired about the bank associated with the debit card and the location of the nearest ATM. The unlikely duo proceeded to a well-known supermarket chain in the area, where the perpetrator withdrew 2,000 pesos. In a bizarre twist, the kidnapper attempted to reassure the victim, claiming he had just been released from prison and was in dire need of money due to a terminal illness. This was, of course, a ruse to manipulate the situation to his advantage.
The situation took a more ominous turn when the kidnapper used the victim’s phone to contact their mother, demanding additional money and valuables. It was later revealed that the perpetrator had a history of four prior convictions, including three for theft and one for misappropriation of property.
The mother, understandably frantic, immediately dialed 911, and the authorities sprang into action. The Unified Command Center played a pivotal role in coordinating the response, working closely with mobile units in the area, particularly the Zone I Investigation team. As the mother provided updates on the kidnapper’s location, the authorities were able to track their movements, all while keeping her informed and calm. The police were able to gather crucial details about the perpetrator’s demands and the planned meeting point.
In a bold move, the mother arrived alone at the designated location, near the intersection of Sarmiento and Bv. Artigas, with the 8,000 pesos, clothing, a PlayStation, and other items the kidnapper had requested. As she left the items and the perpetrator took possession of them, the police closed in, apprehending the suspect and bringing the ordeal to an end. The swift and coordinated response of the authorities, coupled with the mother’s bravery, ultimately led to the successful resolution of the situation, and the teenager was safely reunited with their family.