Midfielder kidnapped: A midfielder for Vasco de Gama was kidnapped and tortured in Brazil, according to reports on Friday.
Bernardo, who goes by one name, was abducted by drug traffickers in Rio de Janeiro on Thursday, Yahoo Sports reported. He is believed to have been involved with Daiane Rodrigues, the daughter of a local crime boss.
Bernardo and Rodrigues were kidnapped and taken to Timbau Hill before they were tied up and beaten. Bernardo was taken to a local hospital before he was discharged.
Rodrigues was also shot several times in the leg, the report said.
“I spoke with Bernardo a little while ago and our priority is to give total support to the player,” Vasco sporting director Rene Simoe said, according to Yahoo, citing the Brazilian language site Globoesporte.
“Of course, Vasco do not want to see their name involved in anything outside of a sporting context. We know that the player must receive support from the club while legal proceedings are taken,” he added.
Police are investigating the alleged incident, The Associated Press reported. They reportedly interrogated Rodrigues, whose leg wounds were not serious.
Authorities told AP that two other players were with Berardo and told the drug gang to release him.
Police investigator Jose Pedro da Costa said he will speak with all players involved.
