Footballer Detained Minutes Before Match in Ecuador Over Unpaid Child Support

Ecuadorian footballer José Hernández was detained by police just minutes before his team, Mushuc Runa, was set to play Universidad Católica in a Liga Pro match. The incident occurred at the Estadio Olímpico Atahualpa and disrupted the pre-game preparations for the 'Ponchito' squad.

Preliminary reports indicate that Hernández's arrest is linked to a judicial process concerning the non-payment of child support. Videos circulating on social media showed the player, still in his Mushuc Runa uniform, being handcuffed and escorted by National Police officers to an official vehicle to continue the legal proceedings.

The unexpected arrest surprised fans at the stadium and members of the club, as Hernández was listed in the starting lineup and was ready to participate in the match. Mushuc Runa ultimately won the game against Universidad Católica with a score of 3-2.

Hernández, a 29-year-old Ecuadorian left-back, has had a decade-long career playing for various clubs including Emelec, Delfín, and Macará, as well as a brief stint in Ukraine. He has been a regular starter for Mushuc Runa this season, featuring in 14 league matches and one Copa Ecuador game.