Sulayman Nyang, a Gambian immigrant and soccer coach from Aurora, Colorado, was detained by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at Chicago O’Hare International Airport on Thursday, April 17, 2025, upon returning from international travel. The detention has sparked concern among his family, friends, and the Aurora community, where Nyang is known for his dedication to youth soccer and community engagement.
According to Nyang’s wife, who spoke to local media, the detention occurred shortly after Nyang arrived at O’Hare. Details surrounding the reason for his detention remain unclear, as CBP has not released an official statement regarding the incident. Nyang’s wife stated that he was traveling with valid documentation, and the family is working to understand the circumstances of his detention. “We are devastated and confused,” she said. “Sulayman is a hardworking father and coach who loves this community. We want answers.”
Nyang, who has lived in the United States for several years, is a respected figure in Aurora, where he coaches youth soccer and mentors young athletes. Colleagues and players describe him as a passionate leader who fosters teamwork and resilience.
The detention comes amid heightened immigration enforcement operations across the U.S., including in Chicago, where U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) reported arresting 956 people in a single day earlier this year. While Nyang’s case involves CBP, not ICE, the timing has raised questions about whether his detention is related to broader immigration policies.
CBP airport procedures typically involve screening travelers for compliance with immigration and customs laws. Still, detentions can occur for various reasons, including issues with documentation, prior immigration history, or other federal concerns. Without official confirmation, speculation about Nyang’s case remains limited.
The post Gambian immigrant and Aurora Soccer Coach Detained by Customs at Chicago Airport appeared first on The Alkamba Times.
