Former Ecuador star Christian Lara arrested over attempted armed robbery

Former Ecuador international Christian Lara has been arrested and attacked by bystanders following his alleged involvement in an attempted armed robbery in Quito.

Dramatic scenes in Ecuadorian capital

Footage has emerged showing the 45-year-old being kicked and punched by angry onlookers outside an electronics shop.

Heavily armed police were forced to shield the retired midfielder from the public before bundling him into a patrol car.

The incident took place in the La Magdalena neighbourhood following a reported gunfight between suspects and responding officers.

Authorities allege the former World Cup participant was intercepted while sitting in a suspected getaway vehicle outside the store.

Police seize firearms after foiling raid

Ecuadorian authorities confirmed that the former Liga Pro champion was one of several suspects detained after the failed hold-up at the Tecnomega premises.

Local police subsequently released images of the detained individuals alongside photographs of confiscated weapons.

Police chief Pablo Lastra issued an official statement detailing the swift response to the emergency call.

“I can confirm we have apprehended four individuals who allegedly participated in an attempted robbery of a technology store in a neighbourhood in the Ecuadorian capital Quito called La Magdalena.”

“Officers responded to an emergency call and thanks to the quick response, managed to foil the crime at the store called Tecnomega.”

“Approximately six individuals with firearms entered the premises with the alleged aim of committing a robbery.”

“As well as the four suspects, we have seized three guns, including a home-made mini-rifle. We have also recovered several firearm cartridges and a number of electronic items.”

A decorated domestic career

Known affectionately as ‘Diablito’ during his playing days, the diminutive attacker earned 28 caps for his country between 2002 and 2009.

He is best remembered globally for being the shortest player at the 2006 World Cup in Germany.

The veteran playmaker made a brief substitute appearance against England during a narrow 1-0 defeat in the round of 16 of that tournament.

Despite brief stints in Qatar, Colombia and Mexico, he spent the majority of his career in his homeland.

He won three domestic league titles during successful spells with C.D. El Nacional and LDU Quito before his eventual retirement.