MIAMI / LAHORE (Finale Monitoring) Somali football referee Omar Artan has been denied entry into the United States after immigration authorities raised security concerns upon his arrival at Miami International Airport.
According to officials, Artan arrived in Miami on Saturday and was expected to join fellow match officials ahead of the FIFA World Cup tournament. However, after an inspection process, authorities refused him entry and arranged for his return to Somalia.
The decision came despite reports that the referee had received a valid US visa only days before traveling to the United States.
US authorities stated that information uncovered during the inspection process linked the referee to individuals suspected of involvement with terrorist organizations, prompting the decision to deny entry on security grounds.
The incident has drawn attention due to Artan’s expected role in the tournament and the timing of the decision, which came shortly before competition activities were set to begin.
The case highlights the strict security and immigration screening procedures in place for international visitors entering the United States, particularly during major global events.
