Refugee sister of Leeds striker failed to disclose money gifts

Congolese nationals Ambroisine Lampin, 24 and her partner Ali Mbaya, 41, were both failed asylum seekers who could not be returned to their country because of the political unrest there.

The couple were not permitted to work but received accommodation and vouchers worth 140 a week to support them and their two children.

But suspicions were raised when Mbaya used vouchers to buy a TV for 1,000 and later tried to get a cash refund for it.

Mehran Nassiri, prosecuting, told Leeds Crown Court yesterday: "It was clear that the defendants had access to money well in excess of their support."

Checks on Lampin's bank account showed that 22,655 had been deposited while she was receiving Government support.

The money included around 13,000 paid into the account from "friends and family" including one payment of 5,000.

"Mr Kandol was generous with money to them," said Mr Nassiri.

Over 8,000 had also been paid to Mbaya after he obtained work in a false name.

The couple were first interviewed in May last year when Lampin admitted that her brother was a professional footballer. Mbaya accepted he had bought the TV but said he returned it because he was not happy with it.

Mbaya admitted four charges of fraud and Lampin one charge of fraud.

Both were given nine months jail sentences suspended for two years and Mbaya was also ordered to complete 140 hours of unpaid work.

Sentencing the couple of Victoria Road, Huddersfield, Judge Kerry Macgill said: "Our country has opened its doors to people like you seeking refuge, we provide accommodation and a reasonable level of subsistence through vouchers."

"The only reason you have not been deported back to your country of origin is because of the political climate in the Congo and the UK recognising you might be in danger if you are sent back."

He understood their two children had medical difficulties which caused extra costs travelling to hospital "but that is not a complete or satisfactory answer".

Leeds United striker Kandol is under contract but currently available for transfer.