Two Afghan nationals, who were granted U.S. citizenship for their work with American special forces in Afghanistan, have been arrested and accused of stealing more than $18,000 worth of equipment belonging to the England national soccer team. Mustafa Salik, 40, and Erfan Kamal, 35, were taken into custody after items, including boots, signed jerseys, and a mascot, disappeared from a van transporting the gear from Florida to the team's training facility in Kansas City.
The alleged theft occurred while the van, driven by the two men who worked for Vista Trans Holding, stopped in Columbia, Missouri, approximately 150 miles from Kansas City. The Daily Mail reported that FA officials contacted the police after noticing the equipment was missing. The men have since returned the stolen items.
Both Salik and Kamal face up to seven years in prison if convicted. Court documents indicate that Kamal worked for nine years as a contractor assisting U.S. military special forces in their fight against the Taliban before immigrating to the United States. Salik reportedly worked with the U.S. military for 15 years in a similar capacity before immigrating.
During a bail hearing, lawyers for both men argued for a reduced bond, which was granted. The initial bond of $75,000 was lowered to $20,000. Lawyers contended that returning the men to Afghanistan would result in certain death at the hands of the Taliban. They also stated that both men are devout Muslims who believe theft is against their religious principles and that they cooperated with the investigation.
As part of their release conditions, the judge ordered both men to surrender their passports and to remain at least 1,000 feet away from the England team's hotel, training facility, or any FIFA event spaces. Lawyers for the accused have described the situation as a misunderstanding and expressed confidence in resolving the matter. Pashto interpreters were present for the court proceedings, and the case has been adjourned until next month.