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17 December 2004
RIO DE JANEIRO – Kidnappers have freed the mother of one of Brazil’s brightest young football stars, Robinho, six weeks after seizing her at gunpoint from a party.
Marina Lima de Souza, 43, was found in the west of the city overnight, according to Sao Paulo police.
Brazilian media reported that a ransom was paid. This has not been confirmed.
She was seized in early November, shortly after media reports linked her 20-year-old son with a lucrative move to Spanish side Real Madrid.
The drama has been keenly watched in Spain after Robinho was linked to the Madrid side.
Police said de Souza was undergoing medical checks after being found on the outskirts of Sao Paulo.
Her ordeal began on 6 November when two gunmen abducted her from a barbecue party in the town of Praia Grande, 75km (45 miles) from Sao Paulo.
Other guests were locked in a bathroom while the kidnappers made their getaway with her.
Robinho, whose full name is Robson de Souza, has not played for his team, Santos, since his mother was kidnapped.
He is regarded as one of the most exciting young footballers in Brazil and has been linked with several top clubs in Europe.
[Copyright EFE with Expatica]
Subject: Spanish news