Ghanaian footballer brothers deported after years without residence permits
Two brothers from Ghana who played for Cypriot clubs without valid documents have been removed from the island, as authorities tighten checks on foreign athletes.
Two brothers from Ghana, Senior and Junior Tokou, have been removed from Cyprus after it turned out they had been living on the island without residence permits for close to three years, as reported by Cyprus Mail. The pair, reportedly 22 years old, turned out for Xylofagou FC this season and had earlier spells at Othellos Athienou and Iraklis Gerolakkou.
Police picked them up during a training session several weeks ago and kept them in detention; the men had even put pen to paper on a fresh club contract although their time in the country had already run out. Their removal followed joint work by the police and the Deputy Ministry of Migration and International Protection.
While held, the brothers used social media to ask the public for support, saying they had arrived hoping to build professional careers and help their families back home, and requesting a chance to fix their status and continue playing.
What it means for residents
The case puts the spotlight on how foreign athletes are registered in Cyprus, and on the paperwork clubs and players must keep current. Anyone involved in local sport should treat immigration status as part of the job, not an afterthought.
- Clubs: the deputy ministry has set 31 December 2026 as the deadline for resolving pending issues involving foreign players and coaches.
- Players and coaches: expect closer scrutiny from January 2027, so confirm your permits and contracts are valid before then.
- Everyday life: a lapsed permit can lead to arrest and removal, regardless of how long you have lived or played here.
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