A British teenager sentenced to 1 12 months in jail in Dubai after a “holiday romance” with a 17-year-old lady has surrendered himself to authorities to start his sentence, based on a marketing campaign group.
Marcus Fakana, 18, was along with his household within the United Arab Emirates (UAE) when he met the lady, who can be from London and is now 18.
He was arrested and charged after the lady’s mom discovered their chats and footage and known as the Dubai police.
Marketing campaign group Detained In Dubai beforehand mentioned Fakana deliberate to enchantment the sentence and urged UK Overseas Secretary David Lammy, who’s the household’s MP in Tottenham, to intervene.
Nonetheless, when requested in regards to the case, the international secretary mentioned folks ought to “follow the rules” of different international locations. He additionally mentioned Fakana had “all the support available” from UK officers.
The pinnacle of Detained In Dubai, Rahda Stirling, mentioned Fakana had now handed himself in to authorities and meant to serve his year-long sentence in Dubai’s al Awir jail.
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Lammy on British teen in Dubai
She mentioned he nonetheless hoped for a pardon from Dubai’s ruler, Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum, and assist from Mr Lammy and the British embassy.
She mentioned: “I worry about the impact of Dubai prison on an 18-year-old’s life. It wasn’t easy to find the words to say to him as he surrendered his freedom.”
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He’ll serve his sentence in al Awir jail, based on the marketing campaign group Detained in Dubai
Ms Stirling additionally shared a message from Fakana, who mentioned: “Thank you to everyone who has supported me throughout my fight.
“It has been an extended combat, however nothing is tough with my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ guiding me.
“I’m grateful for all the people who have helped by donating to me and my family of faith for supporting me.”
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Fakana beforehand mentioned the pair saved 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 resort and took him into custody with out clarification.
Dubai is well-known for its strict legal guidelines on medicine, alcohol and intercourse. The age of consent is eighteen and strictly enforced.
In a earlier assertion, prosecutors mentioned: “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.
“Dubai’s authorized system is dedicated to defending the rights of all people and guaranteeing neutral judicial proceedings.”
