Asylum-seeker John Quaquah, who was due to be deported yesterday (WEDS), is still in Britain because guards escorting him out could not get travel visas in time.

Mr Quaquah, 32, was cleared of rioting at Campsfield House, Kidlington, before being served with Home Office papers ordering him from the country.

The detainee, held at Rochester Prison, in Kent, had begun saying goodbye to friends only to be told he could stay on until next Friday (JULY 3).

A second detainee cleared of rioting, Stanley Nwaidike, is being sent home the day before. It is understood his case was scheduled to ensure visas are properly obtained for security guards flying him out.

Candis Roberts, secretary of the Asylum Welcome group, is still pleading for Mr Quaquah to be allowed to stay on compassionate grounds. He fled Ghana for political reasons and fears his life could be in danger if he returns.

Mrs Roberts said: "Mr Quaquah's removal has been put off until July 3. They could not get the visas for the two guards who will take him.

"The change has not been announced yet by the Home Office."

The original decision to deport Mr Quaquah came out of the blue following the collapse of his crown court trial.

It was alleged he and eight other asylum seekers rioted at Campsfield House last August.

A spokesman for the Home Office would not comment on Mr Quaquah's case in detail, but said the removal notice has to be obeyed.

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