By Trend News Line 2024-05-25 01:15:49.
Former Teammate Reveals Marcel’s Offer of $50,000 to $100,000 for Congo Trip
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Daniel Gonzalez, a former teammate of the two Utah residents caught up in the foiled coup attempt, recently disclosed to The Associated Press that Marcel had offered him a substantial amount of money to accompany him on a four-month trip to Congo as a security guard for his politician father. The 22-year-old FedEx worker considered the offer, but ultimately declined in order to spend the summer with his girlfriend.
Gonzalez expressed his sadness for Tyler and Marcel, but also acknowledged his relief at not accepting the offer, as it would have placed him in a potentially dangerous situation. Marcel’s enticement of Gonzalez sheds light on how he may have persuaded Thompson to join him on what was initially presented as a vacation.
The Tempting Offer and Desperate Pitches
Marcel made various propositions to former football teammates in a desperate attempt to find a companion for his trip to Congo. Some were told it was a family vacation, while others were informed it was a service trip to build wells in drought-stricken communities. Although it remains unclear whether Thompson was offered money, multiple teammates mentioned that he hinted at financial incentives, referring to the trip as a “big financial opportunity.”
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While Thompson’s family insists he was manipulated into participating in the coup under false pretenses, Marcel’s mother, Brittney Sawyer, maintains her son’s innocence, stating that he was following his father’s lead.
The Shadow Government and Political Reforms
Christian Malanga, the leader of the Congolese opposition political party, considered himself the president of a shadow government in exile, referred to as the “New Zaire.” Having settled in Salt Lake City with his family in the 1990s, Malanga pursued business ventures in gold mining and used car sales before returning to Congo to advocate for political reforms.
Marcel’s Close Relationship with His Father
Gonzalez revealed that Marcel was secretive about his father’s background and only got to know him well during a summer spent in Africa. Despite Marcel’s assurances of safety, he did not share details about his father’s political affiliations. Marcel’s promises of on-the-job training, travel coverage, and financial compensation were enticing, but Gonzalez declined the offer due to his girlfriend’s wishes.
The Tragic Turn of Events
In the early hours of the coup attempt, Christian Malanga began livestreaming video from inside the palace, accompanied by his armed son. The circumstances that allowed the attackers to breach security remain unclear. Gonzalez, who communicated with Marcel via Snapchat leading up to the trip, was shocked by the outcome and concerned for his friends’ safety.
The Concerned Friends and Former Teammates
Several former football teammates, including Luke Barbee and Jaden Lalor, expressed disbelief at Marcel and Thompson’s involvement in the violent attack. Lalor referred to Marcel as a brother and expressed his desire for their safe return.
In conclusion, the unfolding events surrounding Marcel’s trip to Congo and the subsequent coup attempt have left many questioning the true motivations behind the journey. As investigations continue and details emerge, the safety and well-being of all involved remain a top priority..
Utah man declined offer to travel to Congo for security job
Utah man declined $100K offer to travel to Congo for covert coup attempt.
