An 18-year-old Londoner faces the likelihood years in jail after having intercourse with a 17-year-old British lady he met in Dubai, campaigners say.
Marcus Fakana was along with his household within the UAE when a “holiday romance blossomed” with the lady – who’s additionally from London and now 18.
“We really liked each other but she was secretive with her family because they were strict,” he advised the Detained in Dubai group.
“My parents knew about our relationship but she couldn’t tell hers. She had to meet me without telling them it was to see a boy.”
The lady returned residence however the pair reportedly hoped to proceed the connection again within the UK.
Nevertheless, Mr Fakana mentioned police turned up at his household’s lodge and took him into custody with out rationalization.
He was held for 3 days and wasn’t allowed to name or communicate to his dad and mom, in line with Detained in Dubai, which campaigns to assist individuals it says have suffered injustice.
It says Mr Fakana was arrested and charged after the lady’s mom discovered their chats and footage again within the UK and referred to as Dubai police.
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Dubai attracts tens of millions of holiday makers annually. Pic: Reuters
Dubai is well-known for its strict legal guidelines on issues akin to medication, alcohol and intercourse out of marriage – and campaigners declare {the teenager} from Tottenham might face a 20-year jail sentence.
“Dubai has only recently legalised out-of-wedlock sex for tourists but still hosts a strict Islamic legal system,” mentioned Radha Stirling, CEO of Detained in Dubai.
“The girl was just a few months younger than Marcus and he didn’t know that at the time. Since his arrest, she has turned 18 and Marcus would not be facing 20 years in jail.
“This isn’t one thing Dubai ought to be prosecuting.”
The identical relationship within the UK wouldn’t be unlawful.
Mr Fakana and his household are urging Overseas Secretary David Lammy, their MP, to intervene within the case.
The 18-year-old is not in a police cell however can not depart the nation and says his household is having to pay £2,000 for Airbnbs till his case is resolved.
“They earn a humble living, my mother is a cleaner and my dad works in a warehouse,” he advised Detained in Dubai. “They saved up for this one-off holiday and they have now used all of their savings.”
Earlier this 12 months, an Irish cabin crew member was charged with tried suicide by Dubai authorities and prevented from leaving the UAE.
The fees had been ultimately dropped and he or she was allowed residence after politicians and the media highlighted the case.
