Denise Clarke, Staff ReporterWESTERN BUREAU: AN ANGOLAN national who was ordered deported several months ago for overstaying his visit in Jamaica is still being held by the police.
Anthony Kauele, 31, who was in custody at the Barnett Street lockup in Montego Bay for several months, was recently transferred to the Freeport Police Station.
Superintendent Leon Rose, of the Area One Police, confirmed that a deportation order was issued for Mr. Kauele, but he was still being held at the station.
Mr. Kauele arrived in the island as a visitor, but overstayed his time and gained employment. However, Superintendent Rose was unable to say when the Angolan arrived or when the deportation order was made.
An official at the Immigration Office, in Montego Bay, was also unable to provide any information as to how long Mr. Kauele has been in the island. She advised The Gleaner to direct questions to the Ministry of National Security and Justice.
M. Sharktram Danbauchi, also an Angolan national, told The Gleaner that she was a close friend of Mr. Kauele and that he had been in police custody for the last eight months.
"He does not want to go back home. I have asked the police to release him into my custody," said Ms. Danbauchi. "I am willing to take full responsibility for him and provide him with housing."
She explained that Mr. Kauele holds a Bachelor's Degree in Physiotherapy and had applied to the Ministry of Health for employment.
Superintendent Rose confirmed that Mr. Kauele did not want to return to his homeland. "He has asked to remain in Jamaica, where his skills as a physiotherapist can be utilised."
"In matters of this nature, the person or persons presenting themselves as interested parties in providing both home and employment for this individual, or whoever is sponsoring him, is also a part of the investigation," Superintendent Rose explained.
"The case is presently being investigated by the Ministry of National Security and Justice," he continued.
