Former Guyana Football Federation (GFF) General Secretary Ian Alves has been banned from all football-related activity for five years after being found guilty of sexually harassing female staff members.

The decision was handed down by FIFA’s independent Ethics Committee, which also fined Alves 20,000 Swiss Francs.

In its ruling, the adjudicatory chamber said it was satisfied—after reviewing victim statements, documents from the GFF, Alves’ submissions and other evidence gathered during the investigation—that he abused his position.

The conduct breached multiple provisions of the FIFA Code of Ethics, including those related to the protection of physical and mental integrity and the abuse of position.

The ban takes immediate effect, with Alves formally notified on Tuesday.

FIFA said the detailed grounds for the ruling will be issued within 60 days, in line with its procedures.

In a statement, the GFF said it “acknowledges the decision” and confirmed that it had formally reported the matter and fully cooperated with FIFA throughout the investigation.

“The Federation maintains a comprehensive framework of policies and codes of conduct that demand the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and accountability from all staff and officials,” the GFF said.

“The GFF Council reiterates its zero-tolerance stance on any form of abuse of power or misconduct.”

The federation added that it remains committed to transparency, good governance and protecting the integrity of football in Guyana.

While Alves is a Guyanese football administrator, the case highlights ongoing concerns across the global game about safeguarding and accountability within football institutions.

FIFA reiterated its zero-tolerance approach to abuse, noting that its Ethics Committee handles such cases individually under its Code of Ethics.

It also pointed to its confidential whistleblowing platform, which allows individuals to report safeguarding concerns securely.