Former Premier League footballers, Michael Essien and Carlton Cole, could face jail terms in Indonesia, after they were accused of breaking the country’s immigration laws.
The players’ future in the country is under threat, as it emerges Persib Bandung fielded them without obtaining the correct 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 added: “They are professionals so they must hold a permit to perform activities in Indonesia.”
Under Indonesian law, the offence carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison.
Persib manager, Umuh Muctar, has faulted the ruling, insisting that Indonesia should be proud of having top players like Essien and Cole in their 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.”
The two footballers made their debut for Persib at the weekend in a 0-0 draw against Arema.
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