mate have come under the spotlight due to
irregularities in their residency permits
Former Chelsea men Michael Essien and Carlton Cole
could face a jail sentence in Indonesia after being
accused of breaking immigration laws.
The pair are among the biggest stars in the Indonesian
top flight, with hundreds of fans flocking to training to
see them in action.
But their future in the country is now under threat as it
emerges Persib Bandung fielded the players without
obtaining the correct immigration paperwork.
"As of Tuesday, April 18 2017, Persib Bandung have not
applied for a permanent residency permit, the visitor's
permit is for a limited time," immigration chief Maulia
Purnamawati explained in a statement.
A spokesman further asserted: “They are professionals
so they must hold a permit to perform activities in
Indonesia."
Under Indonesian law, flouting migrant law carries a
maximum penalty of five years in jail.
Persib manager Umuh Muctar criticised the ruling,
affirming that Indonesia should be proud of having
players of Essien's calibre in the local league.
“That they are here is a joy for us, they want to raise up
Indonesia’s name in the world," he told reporters.
“Everybody knows that Essien is a world-class player,
not an illegal immigrant.”
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