The international secretary mentioned folks ought to “follow the rules” of different international locations when requested a few British 18-year-old who has been sentenced to a 12 months in jail in Dubai.
Marcus Fakana, from Mr Lammy’s Tottenham constituency, had a “holiday romance” with a woman who was 17 whereas along with his household within the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The lady, who can also be from London, is now 18.
However after marketing campaign group Detained In Dubai mentioned his therapy was a “disgrace”, the international secretary David Lammy mentioned he has had “all the support available” from UK officers.
“It is the case wherever you are in the world – and that’s why the Foreign Office makes clear on its website what the rules are – that you follow the rules and the law according to that country,” he mentioned.
Fakana felt deserted by the British authorities since his arrest in September, in accordance with Detained in Dubai.
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Marcus Fakana
He mentioned the pair stored their romance secret from the lady’s household “because they were strict” and had hoped to proceed seeing one another again within the UK.
Nonetheless, he mentioned police turned up at his household’s lodge and took him into custody with out rationalization.
Detained In Dubai mentioned Fakana was arrested and charged after the lady’s mom discovered their chats and photos after they received again to the UK and referred to as Dubai police.
Talking in momentary lodging whereas on bail, Fakana, advised the marketing campaign group Detained in Dubai earlier this week that he and his household are “devastated and in shock”.
“I never intended to break the law. It didn’t occur to me at the time and for that, I’m sorry. I am asking His Highness, Sheikh Mohammed al Maktoum to please forgive me and pardon me.
“Let me go dwelling. Please give me my life again,” the BBC reported.
In Dubai, the age of consent is eighteen and strictly enforced.
“Under UAE law, the girl is legally classified as a minor, and in accordance with procedures recognised internationally, her mother – being the legal guardian – filed the complaint,” mentioned the prosecutors in a earlier assertion.
“Dubai’s legal system is committed to protecting the rights of all individuals and ensuring impartial judicial proceedings.”
Fakana is anticipated to enchantment in opposition to the sentence.
