Dirigo Union Standing With Local Soccer Player Detained By ICE
The 24-year-old asylum seeker was at a gas station when he was taken by immigration officials
After U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement recently detained Malunda “Tchikano” Destino, The Dirigo Union, Portland Hearts of Pines’ supporters’ group announced plans to support the local soccer player.
The 24-year-old came to the United States as an asylum-seeker and plays for Maine Legends FC which is based in the Lewiston/Auburn area. According to Project Relief Maine, a Black immigrant-led mutual aid group, “four agents surrounded him, threatening to break the car window if he did not get out. Without cause or compassion, they abducted him in front of our community, and he is now being held in ICE custody.”
A GoFundMe has been set up for Destino’s legal fees and it has already raised $7,000 to hire a lawyer for the 24-year-old. The group is asking for more funds as now they will need to pay an estimated $3,000 in bail to bring Destino home.
“Tchikano isn’t just an incredible talent on the field he’s the heart of our team,” Maine Legends FC said in an Instagram post. “His passion, his leadership, and his unwavering support for the community have made him irreplaceable. His presence lifted us in every game, and his absence now leaves a void we can all feel deeply. This is more than just a player missing a game. This is a young man, a friend, a role model detained and separated from the life and community he helped build. We miss you, Tchikano. We’re thinking of you every day, and we won’t stop speaking your name until you’re back where you belong on the field, with your team, and in your community.”
In addition to directing fans to the GoFundMe, the supporters’ group will be displaying a banner at Saturday’s match in support of Destino.
"We want to be clear: Immigrants are a valuable and respected part of our soccer community,” a statement from the group said. “We stand steadfast in our solidarity with Maine Legends FC and Malunda’s family as they navigate this difficult time, and we promise to do what we can to support them. Everyone deserves to feel safe, be with family, and build the life they want in Maine.”