Marcus Fakana, an 18-year-old British man from Tottenham, North London, was sentenced to one year in prison in Dubai for engaging in a sexual relationship with a 17-year-old British girl during a family holiday.
During a vacation in September, both families began a secret relationship. The girl’s mother reported the matter to Dubai police after discovering photos and messages after their return to the UK. The law in Dubai prohibits sexual relations with anyone under the age of 18, so Fakana was arrested at his hotel.
Campaign group Detained in Dubai called the sentence “an utter disgrace,” arguing the case had been mishandled and should have been treated as a misdemeanor. Founded by Radha Stirling, the group’s founder stated that Fakana has been stuck in Dubai since September and is “desperately hoping” to return home.
Stirling noted that his parents are struggling financially and emotionally after returning to London to resume their jobs as cleaners and warehouse workers. They have appealed to Dubai’s ruler, Sheikh Mohammed Al Maktoum, for clemency.
A spokesperson for the UK Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office confirmed that they are providing consular support to Fakana’s family and keeping in touch with them.
Detained In Dubai claims Fakana feels abandoned by the British government and will be deported after serving his sentence. No comment has been made by the Dubai Public Prosecutor’s office.
As campaigners continue to call for his release, Fakana plans to appeal the ruling.
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