Riegelsberg – Mustafa Murat, an 18-year-old Kurd from Turkey, faces an uncertain future. The young man, who came to Germany alone in August 2022, has built up a perspective for himself over the past two years: a secondary school diploma, support from youth welfare services, and since August 2024 an entry-level qualification in a hairdressing salon in Riegelsberg. But despite all his efforts, he is now threatened with deportation to Turkey – a country that offers him no future.
His head chef Shenoa Martini describes Mustafa as a committed and talented young man. His secondary school leaving certificate, which he mastered with flying colors, was the starting signal for entry-level qualification in her salon. The training place for hairdressing training from August 2025 is guaranteed for him – or rather: it would have been. At the beginning of October, however, Mustafa received a letter from the immigration office inviting him to return advice. This was followed by a negative decision and a rejected appeal to the administrative court.
The authorities argue that Mustafa did not pursue his asylum application and that he was offered sufficient opportunities to leave the country voluntarily. Mustafa's toleration expired and he now faces not only deportation, but also an entry ban of 2.5 years. His boss is stunned: “Everyone implemented – from the Chamber of Crafts to the employment agency – is behind Mustafa.” Nevertheless, there doesn’t seem to be a solution.”
The case is causing widespread concern. Colleagues, customers and supporters have turned to the public and even the state government with calls for help. Prime Minister Anke Rehlinger had the matter forwarded to the responsible Ministry of the Interior, but so far without success. Meanwhile, Mustafa's whereabouts are unknown, and the fear of sudden deportation weighed heavily on him.
For Shenoa Martini the matter is clear: she will continue to fight. The training contract is ready and Mustafa has shown that he is ready to take his place in society. For them, it's not just about a trainee, but about a young life that has found real prospects in Germany. Martini hopes that public attention might bring a change – before it is too late. Subscribe to the Blue Light Report Saarland WhatsApp channel NOW and ALWAYS stay up to date directly (click here)
