Refugee footballer receives heroes welcome after touching down in Australia
Refugee footballer Hakeem al-Araibi is back on Australian soil after being released from detention in Thailand.
“Australia is my country,” al-Araibi said.”I love Australia.”
It follows a lengthy battle involving the Australian government, human rights groups and the public.
“My heart is now full with gratitude. Just so thankful that these tears are falling out of relief and joy,” Al-Araibi’s wife said in a statement, posted online by his team, Pascoe Vale Football Club.
“Finally this nightmare has ended, I am very happy to see everyone happy with me at this moment, thank you all for my support and I would like to say thank you Australia.
“I love you all and thank you from the heart, well done all, we did it.”
Hakeem Al-Araibi arrives home in Melbourne #HakeemSaved pic.twitter.com/EBvzD7nVYa
— FOX SPORTS News (@FOXSportsNews) February 12, 2019