SouthernWorldwide.com – A Somali World Cup referee was denied entry into the United States due to concerns about his associations with suspected members of terrorist organizations, according to an official from the Trump administration.
The individual, identified as Omar Artan, was seeking admission to the U.S. However, during inspection by Customs and Border Protection (CBP), derogatory information came to light.
This information included his alleged association with suspected members of terror groups. Such associations rendered the traveler ineligible for admission into the United States under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).
The Trump administration official stated that the traveler was refused admission. He was provided with immigration forms detailing the specific section of the law used for expedited removal under 8235 of the INA.
The official emphasized the administration’s firm stance: “President Trump’s administration will not allow any security threat to enter our country – full stop.”
Artan was reportedly denied entry at Miami International Airport on Saturday. The CBP cited “vetting concerns” as the reason for the refusal.
According to the Somali Embassy in Kenya, which processed his visa, Artan had been issued a U.S. visa just the week prior. He was scheduled to participate in training with other referees at their base in Miami.
He subsequently returned to Somalia on Wednesday. Upon his return, Artan expressed his gratitude to his supporters.
“I promise you, God willing, that I will attend the next one,” he stated. He urged the Somali public to find comfort and maintain their confidence.
Somalia is among a number of countries subject to travel restrictions imposed by the Trump administration. These restrictions are part of a broader focus on illegal immigration.
Artan was poised to be the first referee from Somalia to officiate at the World Cup. He is recognized as one of the top referees in Africa.
“It is up to all of us to defend the Somali name,” Artan remarked. He asserted the ownership of their nation, regardless of its current state.
“Somalia belongs to us, whether it is in a bad state or a good state. That flag belongs to us, and that passport belongs to us,” he added, highlighting his strong sense of national pride.
The World Cup is scheduled to commence on Thursday. The tournament will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
The final match of the World Cup is slated to take place on July 18. It will be held at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
