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Ulugbek Shadmanov exposed plot by Uzbeki opposition supporters to destabilise Uzbekistan US Lobbyists used in plot to destabilise US relations with Uzbekistan and steal Central Asia’s largest cement holding. United Cement Group’s CEO, Ulugbek Shadmanov, exposed a plot by Uzbeki opposition supporters to destabilise Uzbekistan, its leadership and relations with the United States government, through Texas based lobbyist Stephen Payne , his company Linden Energy , and his connection to Congressman Wesley Hunt  which lead to his own false statements on the House floor. Documents obtained by   Due Process International  show Uzbek/Canadian citizen Uktam Aripov, the CEO of Euroluxe Trading Corp  and close partner of Payne, as the main driver of the operation. Aripov’s key business partner is Russian citizen and Oligarch,   Ovik Mkrtchyan ,  the head of GOR Investments for which former US Energy Secretary, Rick Perry and Mike Pompeo are members of the advisory board. Mkrtchyan was detained in Uzbekistan in January 2024 on corruption related charges, reportedly having transferred more than a billion dollars  to offshore accounts. Payne is a registered lobbyist for Aripov whose allies, Pompeo and Perry, sit on the board of his client’s business partner’s (Oligarch Ovik Mkrtchyan) company who was arrested over corruption allegations. He has been accused of embezzling the company’s wealth after appropriating   Asia Alliance Bank  from Gulnara Karimova , the former President’s daughter, and establishing dozens of offshore companies. Uzbekistan’s New President President Mirziyoyev   was elected in 2016 with a view to make major reforms to policies that had isolated Uzbekistan and held back international diplomacy and economic growth. A crackdown on corruption ensued with a purge of staff across all sectors and promises to clamp down on human rights abuses within the justice system. But his appointment and new policies were conflicting to those who sought to loot Uzbekistan, continue their corrupt practices or support the political opposition. Aripov’s key network includes exiled opposition leader,   Muhammad Salih  and the former President’s daughter, Gulnara Karimova , who was jailed under her father’s administration for corruption. Ulugbek Shadmanov explains his acquisition and depoliticisation of United Cement Group Ulugbek Shadmanov acquired United Cement Group when it was in debt, owing substantial amounts to banks. Shadmanov’s agenda was to discharge the debts and make the company independent of political and lobbyist influence, but this was unacceptable to vested interest powers like Uktam Aripov.   “When Shadmanov declined to engage with Aripov on a project he thought was doomed to fail, Aripov seemed to set his sights higher”, explains Radha Stirling , Interpol & Extradition Expert, Crisis Manager and CEO of Due Process International . “The ideal method to acquire an asset or in this case, the largest cement holding in Central Asia, is through the employment of a smear campaign followed by pressure to lock up the target”. Stirling has seen the playbook   “time and time again. It’s a strategy invoked by those with power or access to it. I’ve often warned investors in the region that the bigger they are or get, the more of a target they make themselves. When there is substantial enterprise involved, the chances of being falsely accused of some made up crime or action increase tenfold.” The extradition expert continued, “Interpol and the extradition process will be weaponized against high value targets as we’ve seen in this case. Shadmanov, who was a UAE Golden Visa holder and long term resident of Dubai, was illegally extradited without any legal process at all”. Aripov and his US lobbyists Aripov focused his attention on United Cement Group and solidifying his hold on power as the new President assumed office. Aripov, with the help of his US business partners and lobbyist connections, enlisted Congressman Wesley Hunt tried to push for an OFAC investigating into UCG, branding the company a “bad actor” and accusing it of benefiting Russia. Of course, Aripov’s business partner, Payne, was closely connected to Hunt and a donor. It should be stated that Shadmanov fully cooperated with authorities and no sanctions violations were found. The former US Ambassador to Uzbekistan wrote to President Mirziyoyev, noting that the allegations were part of a “smear campaign”. He attached an evidenced report, detailing the ongoing campaign against Shadmanov and UCG and offered to meet the Uzbek Ambassador. Plan B Having failed to activate an OFAC investigation, the play continued. In what has been described as a “Game of Thrones” style power and money grab, Shadmanov’s new opposition continued with the false allegations and smear campaigns, desperately trying to enlist security forces and weaponize the justice system.   “Shadmanov was undoubtedly concerned that he was the target of not only Aripov, but his powerful US lobby. Having already fought off one serious and false allegation, he surely knew more were coming”, says Stirling. Dubai’s unlawful extradition During a meeting with top US attorney   Marc Agnifilo  (lawyer for P Diddy), Shadmanov’s villa was stormed by more than a dozen armed and masked Emirati special forces agents. All occupants were thrown to the ground, cuffed and taken away. Agnifilo was told to be quiet and leave the country while Shadmanov was taken to a secret location. He was not able to access his local lawyers but authorities advised that extradition is imminent and they won’t get a chance to oppose it in court. There during the ordeal, was insider “Mr X” who described the event to Kevin Trudeau  this week. Stirling, founded NGO Detained in Dubai in 2008, has helped in more than 23,000 cases of injustice in the UAE.   “Dubai has portrayed to European allies and South Africa that it has a rule of law and that all extradition requests must go through the courts”, explains Stirling. “This policy has caused significant frustration for countries seeking extraditions, especially over the alleged Kinihan gang members and the Gupta Brothers. The UAE has sought to use these wanted persons as leverage in diplomatic deals and treaties to be negotiated as though they were hostages. “The UAE often declines extraditions and has been accused of affording protection to fugitives. The rulers of Emirates have absolute control over the judiciary. If they don’t want someone extradited but want it to appear as an independent decision, they will let it go through the courts but let the judge know the desired outcome. “It is a disgrace that Shadmanov was extradited last week without any charges, without access to due process or even a hearing. Mr Agnifilo asserts that the request is politically motivated and has expressed concerns over human rights violations. After reviewing extensive documentation, I believe Shadmanov being targeted is both political and economical and that the President of Uzbekistan is possibly unaware of the extent to which this group will go to undermine the stability of the country." Corruption in Uzbekistan “Influential but corrupt people within Uzbekistan, who are close to the political opposition in the country, with links to Russian organized crime and a history of appropriating businesses are targeting an investor for his business and assets. We hope that an investigation will lead to the release of Mr Shadmanov and that those involved with seeking to undermine the Presidency and growth of Uzbekistan will be diminished. “While Uzbekistan is rebuilding diplomatic and economic ties with the West, there is obviously, significant opposition by those who would prefer the country to be directed more towards expanding relations with Russia, China and BRICS which Uzbekistan just joined this month. With Shadmanov controlling more than 50% of Uzbekistan’s cement and pledging its use to help rebuild Ukraine, one can imagine foreign interests wanting control of that decision”. US Interests “When we have people like Stephen Payne, Mike Pompeo, Rick Perry and Congressman Wesley Hunt linked to oligarchs who are trying to steal control and assets by any means and to the extent they were willing to throw millions at Americans, you end up with individuals misusing their diplomatic powers for their own financial benefit, even if that undermines United States interests with Uzbekistan as a whole. “Given these Americans and their ties to both Uzbekistan and the UAE, it is unsurprising that Shadmanov was extradited without legal process, but this makes both the UAE and Uzbekistan appear highly unstable and corrupt. “Given the money behind this smear campaign that if successful, would lead to the acquisition of significant holdings, media outlets may be used to place lobby material should be cautious they are not manipulated”. Shadmanov’s fate Shadmanov has been accused of crossing the Uzbekistan border illegally and no other crime. There will be immense pressure to charge him with something so the cement holdings can be justifiably taken from him but if the President is to overcome the reputation of corruption, a third world legal system and human rights violations, it’s imperative Shadmanov is able to continue managing the business he legally acquired without political interference. Stirling confirms they will be bringing his case before the United Nations,   “given the people behind Shadmanov’s arrest and the motives, we find it necessary to apply to the United Nations for an investigation into the arbitrary detention of Mr Shadmanov and to ensure his safety and protection from forced confessions, human rights violations and torture”. Further Information, Books and Press Packs to download. And Contact and Social Media Directory. Radha Stirling CEO at Detained in Dubai  & Due Process International +44 7 309 114 195 Detained in Dubai:  http://www.detainedindubai.org Radha Stirling:  http://www.radhastirling.com Due Process International:  http://www.dueprocess.international Interpol Red Notice  https://www.interpolrednotice.com/  UAE Police Check (UAEPC):  https://uaepolicecheck.com/ IPEX - Interpol & Extradition Reform & Defence Experts:  https://www.ipexreform.com/ Detained in Doha:  https://www.detainedindoha.org CLAN - Crypto Legal Advocacy Network:  https://www.bitclan.org/ Gulf Investment Monitor:  https://www.gulfinvestmentmonitor.com/   Podcast:  http://www.gulfinjustice.news Princess Latifa:  www.princesslatifa.org  Facebook:  http://www.facebook.com/detainedindubai   YouTube:  http://www.youtube.com/detainedindubai X (Twitter):  https://x.com/RadhaStirling   LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/radhastirling    Live news and updates on Telegram:  https://t.me/stirlingnews   mail: info@detainedindubai.org  / Press queries: press@detainedindubai.org   Phone: +447309114195  WhatsApp:  Click here Guides, Press Packs, Books and Information Pamphlets by Radha Stirling. 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US Lobbyists used in plot to destabilise US relations with Uzbekistan and steal Central Asia’s largest cement holding

Ulugbek Shadmanov, exposed a plot by opposition supporters to destabilise Uzbekistan, its leadership and relations with the United States

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Suspicious illegal extradition of investor and businessman from UAE to Uzbekistan following US lobbyist payments Golden Visa Holder and CEO of a cement production giant, Ulugbek Shadmanov, was unlawfully extradited from the UAE yesterday with no judicial process. United Cement Group is the largest industrial holding company in central Asia, employing more than 7000 people, leaving its CEO the target of individuals and groups who seek to appropriate it.  Ulugbek Shadmanov had successfully fought off a smear campaign led by corrupt businessmen and their US lobbyists. Shadmanov lived in Dubai where he managed his companies under the protection of the UAE Golden Visa, but all that came to an end yesterday when he was flown in handcuffs to Uzbekistan. Shadmanov was surrounded by over a dozen armed Emirati special forces agents during a meeting with his US attorney at his estate in Dubai. He had committed no crime, was not a threat to society or security but was treated like a crime boss, denied access to his lawyers and to any form of judicial proceeding. After a traumatic experience, his US attorney was quickly unshackled and told to quietly leave the country. Shadmanov was not heard from again. His lawyers tried to gain access but Radha Stirling , CEO of Detained in Dubai   and IPEX Reform , says “once authorities brand someone a security department issue, there is little a lawyer can do. When an extradition request is made, UAE law requires the matter be heard by the courts where the individual is given the opportunity to contest the request.  The courts must deny extradition where that person faces serious human rights risks or if the action is politically motivated.  Ulugbek Shadmanov was given no such chance. “We saw how upset South Africa was over the Gupta Brothers, Ireland and the US over the Kinihan’s and the hoops Denmark had to jump through to extradite Sanjay Shah. In those cases, the UAE portrayed that it had an internationally recognised rule of law, dismissing the lobbying attempts of these countries.  So why was Dubai suspiciously keen to hand over a well respected businessman to Uzbekistan with zero legal process whatsoever? “Ulugbek Shadmanov is wanted by Uzbekistan for his assets. The country has an extremely poor human rights record with forced confessions, torture, human rights abuses and corruption. Shadmanov’s family fear for his life. “The UAE portrays itself to investors as safe, but if a country can force someone onto a plane without so much as a basic court hearing, nobody is safe. The secretive manner in which this took place is cause for serious concern. The Uzbek players who were targeting Shadmanov had paid substantial sums to US lobbyists. They held close relations with lobbyist Steve Payne, Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo & Former U.S. Energy Secretary Rick Perry who also have long standing tight-knit relations with the UAE government. “It’s highly concerning to see the illegal extradition of a successful businessman, husband and father from Dubai, but it is of particular concern that those targeting him had paid influential Americans to assist in their pursuit. Shadmanov’s team are investigating the extent of the skullduggery and violations of US, UAE and international law.  It's important to know whether any US citizens were involved in this illegal extradition, as they were in the 2018 abduction of Princess Latifa”.  Radha Stirling , CEO Detained in Dubai Further Information, Books and Press Packs to download. And Contact and Social Media Directory. Radha Stirling CEO at Detained in Dubai  & Due Process International +44 7 309 114 195 Detained in Dubai:  http://www.detainedindubai.org Radha Stirling:  http://www.radhastirling.com Due Process International:  http://www.dueprocess.international Interpol Red Notice  https://www.interpolrednotice.com/  UAE Police Check (UAEPC):  https://uaepolicecheck.com/ IPEX - Interpol & Extradition Reform & Defence Experts:  https://www.ipexreform.com/ Detained in Doha:  https://www.detainedindoha.org CLAN - Crypto Legal Advocacy Network:  https://www.bitclan.org/ Gulf Investment Monitor:  https://www.gulfinvestmentmonitor.com/   Podcast:  http://www.gulfinjustice.news Princess Latifa:  www.princesslatifa.org  Facebook:  http://www.facebook.com/detainedindubai   YouTube:  http://www.youtube.com/detainedindubai X (Twitter):  https://x.com/RadhaStirling   LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/radhastirling    Live news and updates on Telegram:  https://t.me/stirlingnews   mail: info@detainedindubai.org / Press queries: press@detainedindubai.org   Phone: +447309114195  WhatsApp:  Click here Guides, Press Packs, Books and Information Pamphlets by Radha Stirling. Free to download. click here click here click here click here

CEO of Cement Giant Extradited from UAE. US involvement investigation.

CEO of United Cement Group, Ulugbek Shadmanov, unlawfully extradited from the UAE to Uzbekistan 8th January 2025 without judicial process

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CEO of cement giant faces politically motivated extrajudicial extradition  They will will extort and torture him. UAE Golden Visa holder fights extrajudicial extradition after his estate was stormed by special forces in Dubai. The prominent CEO is being held somewhere in Dubai but hope is dwindling as the Emirates rulers decide whether to extrajudicially extradite him to Uzbekistan where economically motivated charges are being manufactured. His US Attorney is lobbying for the case to go through court where his client at least has a chance to present his case. United Cement Group (UCG) owner, Ulugbek Shadmanov, moved to Dubai under the UAE’s Golden Visa where he’s resided for several years. He conducts business, actively invests in the country’s economy under the Golden Visa, which underscores his contribution to the state’s development. UCG is the largest cement holding in Central Asia, operating in Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan, employing over 7,000 individuals. Uzbekistan’s ongoing political rivalries and tribal clashes caused instability in the country with many business owners opting to pack up and leave. “The bigger the fish, the more at risk”, explains Due Process International founder, crisis manager and extradition expert, Radha Stirling . “When a country becomes unstable or when corruption is rife, those with substantial assets are very much at risk. Charges will be fabricated against them as a means to misappropriate their life’s work. "Uzbekistan has suffered widespread corruption issues, bribery, embezzlement. Ulugbek was very much at risk of targeting. He opted to relocate to the UAE and manage his business from safety”, explains Stirling. Mr Shadmanov, a highly influential businessman with an impeccable reputation, increased cement production and had planned to support rebuilding efforts in Ukraine. “He felt safe in the UAE”, adds Stirling, “that the Emirates would protect him from any politically motivated attempts to target him and his businesses, that is, until the 10th of December 2024”. Mr Shadmanov was meeting with his US attorney, Mark Agnifilo, when his estate was stormed by a fully armed special forces unit in combat gear. Mr Agnifilo and another American associate lay face down on the floor as the three were restrained and handcuffed. The two Americans were eventually released and told to go home to the US while Mr Shadmanov has not been heard from since. Local lawyers say the UAE appears to be considering extraditing him without going through the courts and affording him the chance to legally defend himself. “This is truly frightening”, says Ms Stirling. “Imagine living in a country because it appears safer and modern with a proper legal system to then find you can be flown out in the night at the click of a finger”. UAE authorities have apparently asked Uzbekistan if they can produce any charges and the country is now conjuring up paperwork to legitimise the request but Stirling says, “it is quite clear that powers in Uzbekistan are targeting Mr Shadmanov as a means to misappropriate his assets. We are certain that if he is extradited, he will be tortured until he signs over all of his holdings. His family fear for his life and are begging the UAE to at least give him due process. He hasn’t committed any crime. His family can’t imagine what he will go through if he is sent to Uzbekistan. They don’t believe they will ever see him again. “The UAE has processed a number of extradition requests over the years and has moved towards a more stringent process whereby individuals are able to submit a defence in court and will be protected if they risk serious human rights violations or torture. Uzbekistan has been widely criticised for systematic torture used by security forces to extract confessions, punish political dissidents, intimidate critics, and maintain the regime’s control over the population. There is absolutely no doubt that Mr Shadmanov is in this risk category and that the request is politically and economically motivated”. There is suggestion Uzbekistan may even be trying to fabricate allegations that Mr Shadmanov was somehow implicated in an assassination attempt. Attorney Mark Agnifilo confirms “there are currently no formal charges against him in connection with the incident and he categorically denies any involvement. His detention and the decision to deport him are troubling at best. “Mr. Shadmanov, who has no prior record of misconduct, is now in a grave situation. I understand that Mr. Shadmanov has been held in isolation, has not been allowed to see counsel, and has not appeared before a court. I further understand that UAE authorities have initiated steps to deport Mr. Shadmanov to Uzbekistan, where he faces the real risk of unjust persecution and imprisonment based on politically motivated and unsubstantiated accusations. “Deportations under circumstances likely to lead to torture or arbitrary imprisonment violate international human rights obligations, including the Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, to which the UAE is a party. Mr. Shadmanov could well be subject to just such treatment if send forcibly to Uzbekistan.” Mr Agnifilo has urged UAE authorities to release Mr Shamanov, allow him access to legal representatives to ensure his right to a fair trial and transparent legal process and to respect international obligations to protect individuals from refoulement to countries where they are at risk of persecution, torture, or other severe violations of their rights. “To date, I have formed a professional team of former investigators and operatives who have initiated an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the persecution of my client, including identifying those responsible for these actions worldwide”, Mr Agnifilo said in a statement. “Based on my experience and analysis, I am convinced that all charges against my client are unfounded and nothing more than an attempt to deprive him of his assets and politically discredit him”. Mr Shadmanov’s defence team is calling on the UAE to thoroughly investigate and refrain from surrendering him throughout the course of legal proceedings. “Extraditions should not be agreed through diplomacy, but through judicial process”, Radha Stirling. “If investors are to feel safe in the country, they need to be assured of due legal process and the presumption of innocence. It is a tragedy when someone is wrongfully extradited to a country where they will be abused, tortured or even killed. "The UAE recently declined Sherif Osman’s politically motivated extradition to Egypt and we hope they will give the same treatment to Mr Shadmanov. He should not be extradited simply because of his citizenship”. Further Information, Books and Press Packs to download. And Contact and Social Media Directory. Radha Stirling CEO at Detained in Dubai  & Due Process International +44 7 309 114 195 Detained in Dubai:   http://www.detainedindubai.org Radha Stirling:   http://www.radhastirling.com Due Process International:   http://www.dueprocess.international Interpol Red Notice  https://www.interpolrednotice.com/  UAE Police Check (UAEPC):   https://uaepolicecheck.com/ IPEX - Interpol & Extradition Reform & Defence Experts:   https://www.ipexreform.com/ Detained in Doha:   https://www.detainedindoha.org CLAN - Crypto Legal Advocacy Network:   https://www.bitclan.org/ Gulf Investment Monitor:  https://www.gulfinvestmentmonitor.com/   Podcast:   http://www.gulfinjustice.news Princess Latifa:  www.princesslatifa.org  Facebook:  http://www.facebook.com/detainedindubai   YouTube:   http://www.youtube.com/detainedindubai X (Twitter):  https://x.com/RadhaStirling   LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/radhastirling    Live news and updates on Telegram:  https://t.me/stirlingnews   mail: info@detainedindubai.org / Press queries: press@detainedindubai.org   Phone: +447309114195  WhatsApp:  Click here Guides, Press Packs, Books and Information Pamphlets by Radha Stirling. 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UAE Golden Visa holder seized by special forces

United Cement Group (UCG) owner, Ulugbek Shadmanov fights extradition from Dubai

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Protest arranged for Marcus Fakana Friends & family have organised a march in Westminster to support Marcus Fakana who spent his New Year in solitary confinement in Dubai’s notorious Al Awir prison. 18 year old Marcus Fakana was sentenced to a year in Dubai jail for having consensual relations with a British woman who was one month away from turning 18. Detained in Dubai CEO and Crisis Manager, Radha Stirling says, “Consensual sex for two Brits who are now both 18 is completely legal in the UK and it is easy to see how travelling teenage tourists could inadvertently break the law in Dubai. Marcus was not aware that the girl was one month away from being 18 until police showed him her passport. They were in the same school year and it didn’t cross their minds to confirm ages or check local laws in the ‘modern and liberal Las Vegas of the Middle East’, or so it’s marketed to be. “On returning to the UK, the girl's strict Indian-British mother discovered the girl’s romance and reported it to Dubai police who took it upon themselves to charge Marcus with a felony, despite confirming the act was consensual. “Dubai prosecutors have absolute discretion on whether to charge a crime or not. The law is arbitrarily enforced which adds confusion for tourists. Visitors carrying CBD vapes have been criminally charged while others have been deported and others have simply had the vapes confiscated and been permitted to continue their travel. “Police could have dismissed the report or charged Marcus with a misdemeanour like ‘offensive behavior’ and fined or deported him. Instead, they opted to charge him with a felony as though he was a paedophile which clearly, he is not." “In Dubai, the circumstances of the case can be taken into account and it is clear that Marcus did not need to be treated so poorly, to be thrown into prison for a year over a victimless crime, a holiday romance. “He has been through a tremendous amount of trauma over the past several months of judicial proceedings which for an 18 year old British tourist, is punishment enough. Marcus has spent Christmas facing detention, New Year’s behind bars and will spend his upcoming birthday in a facility that English courts have refused to extradite people to due to the ‘real risk of human rights abuses and torture’. “David Lammy’s public comments perfectly sum up the current Labour government’s attitude towards the people of Britain. The Irish government never said Tori Towey should have ‘followed the law’ when she was charged with attempting to commit suicide while escaping domestic violence. They said it was outrageous and that she shouldn’t spend any time behind bars. They got her home. The British government never said Scott Richards should have followed the law when he was jailed for sharing a charity page on Facebook. It’s frankly appalling that Lammy would essentially disavow his constituent and defer that he ‘should have followed the law’ when he is supposed to be fighting for him. Both Mr Lammy and Keir Starmer have every channel available to them to lobby the government of Dubai for a royal pardon or for Marcus’s sentence to be commuted as Britain has formerly done and as other countries have recently done for their citizens, even when charged with much more serious crimes. “It’s very easy for older teens and youth to get into trouble in Dubai, even when visiting with parents. There is a lot of behaviour that is commonplace and appears legal but if a finger is pointed, that person will be arrested and prosecuted. “From a political standpoint, Ireland, Canada, the US, Malaysia and Israel have saved their citizens from unjust treatment in the UAE. The UK must do the same or they will be seen as weak by their Middle Eastern allies. When weakness is sensed, it can lead to major diplomatic incidents like the Khashoggi assassination, like the attack on US yacht Nostromo, like violating Iran sanctions in Ras Al Khaimah and like the housing of Chinese military interrogation bases in Abu Dhabi. “When countries like Israel and the US stand up for their citizens, it sends a clear message of strength and diplomacy. It creates stronger diplomatic relations between the countries and shows strength. After the Abraham Accords, Israel showed itself to be swift and effective at diplomatically resolving unjust issues for their citizens and that’s why you hear very little about Israeli prosecutions in the UAE. The US has been effective in resolving cases like that of Tierra Allen, Elizabeth De Las Santos, Peter Clark and Joseph Lopez. Their diplomatic relations with the UAE are stronger for it and they are seen as strong. “If Keir Starmer and David Lammy can’t resolve a basic diplomatic matter like the unfairly lengthy incarceration of a British teen, it says they are weak and desperate. It says they are weak to British citizens, to the Middle East and weak on the world stage. How can the UK government be relied upon to represent Britain internationally, if it can’t solve a simple teen's unfair plight.  This is something that VP Elect JD Vance had resolved in just two weeks. “Marcus has been cut off from the telephone, is in solitary and is wholly dependent on the British government to represent him in diplomatic exchanges”. “Supporters of Marcus will march today (4th January 2025) from 12:00 - 16:00. They will assemble at Parliament Square and head towards Downing Street to call on the British government to help free Marcus. “Supporters are encouraged to abstain from travel to Dubai until Marcus is free, to write to the UAE Embassy, their MP’s, members of the House of Lords, to David Lammy, MP and to their local media outlets”. Further Information, Books and Press Packs to download. And Contact and Social Media Directory. Radha Stirling CEO at Detained in Dubai  & Due Process International +44 7 309 114 195 Detained in Dubai: http://www.detainedindubai.org Detained in Doha: https://www.detainedindoha.org Radha Stirling: http://www.radhastirling.com CLAN - Crypto Legal Advocacy Network: https://www.bitclan.org/ Due Process International: http://www.dueprocess.international IPEX - Interpol & Extradition Reform & Defence Experts: https://www.ipexreform.com/ Interpol Red Notice https://www.interpolrednotice.com/  Podcast: http://www.gulfinjustice.news Gulf Investment Monitor: https://www.gulfinvestmentmonitor.com/   Princess Latifa: www.princesslatifa.org   Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/detainedindubai YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/detainedindubai X (Twitter): https://x.com/RadhaStirling   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/radhastirling   Live news and updates on Telegram: https://t.me/stirlingnews mail: info@detainedindubai.org  / Press queries: press@detainedindubai.org Phone: +447309114195  WhatsApp: Click here Guides, Press Packs, Books and Information Pamphlets by Radha Stirling. 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March for Marcus

Supporters to assemble at Parliament Square and head towards Downing Street to call on the British government to help free Marcus.

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Marcus prepares for a year in prison 18 year old Marcus Fakana turns himself in for 1 year prison sentence 18 year old Marcus Fakana was sentenced to one year in prison after being prosecuted over his holiday romance with a woman who was just one month away from being 18 at the time. Had the British teens travelled to the UAE in October instead of September, he could not have been charged. The police had discretion to charge him with a misdemeanour like “offensive behaviour” or similar, but chose to charge him with the felony of sex with an underage girl, the same law a 40 year old engaging in sex with a 14 year old would have been charged with.  Although Marcus received the lowest statutory sentence, it is clear that this could have been handled more reasonably and the prosecutors could have exercised more discretion. Rather than appealing and dragging the ordeal out for potentially no gain or even a longer sentence, Marcus made the difficult decision to turn himself in to begin his sentence. Message from Marcus Fakana Thank you to everyone who has supported me throughout my Fight. It's been a long fight but nothing is hard with my Lord and saviour Jesus Christ Guiding me. I'm grateful for all the people who helped by donating to me and my family of faith for supporting me. There's a fake instagram which could potentially harm my position it is called @Marcusfakana with (150K followers) The official Marcus fakana page is  @M_tside . Please go and follow as it will be the only platform where I will be speaking about my Story. Have a lovely Christmas and Amazing New Years GoodBye Marcus.F His family are advocating for a royal pardon and commuted sentence and will be continuing to push the British government, including Foreign Secretary David Lammy, for assistance. Radha Stirling , CEO of Detained in Dubai , said   “We hope the government of Dubai will see that it is counter-productive to imprison a young tourist for something that is perfectly legal in his country and that, at the base of it, is terribly damaging and unfair. The experience will change Marcus forever and is completely unnecessary over consensual sex with another British tourist. “British tourists have been jailed for sex outside marriage in the past and rape victims for adultery. It was later recognised that this was unfair and laws and enforcement have significantly changed as a result. We hope Sheikh Mohamed Al Maktoum will recognise the severity of the sentence in this case with the special circumstances and show compassion towards Marcus and his family.” Speaking to Ms Stirling, Marcus said he will focus on his health and mental health when in jail.    “Marcus is hopeful that in beginning his ordeal today, he will be home sooner than he would be if he appealed.  He is requesting UK government assistance in appealing for a pardon and hopes Dubai's ruler will commute his sentence.  It is difficult to have the right words to tell a young man turning himself in for a year in Dubai prison.  He's very brave and kind and I truly hope he will be home soon”. Detained in Dubai warned visitors to contact them in the first instance.  "Don't delay contacting us and do not assume an Embassy's recommend list of local lawyers is the best choice. "If you are returning to the UAE, take precautions by instructing a  UAE Police Check . This simple act prevents arrest on arrival and would have saved many of our clients from hardship."   "Craig Ballentine, Stuart Quiney and Laleh Shahravesh would never have made headlines had they checked their status in advance",  warns Stirling. Further Information, Books and Press Packs to download. And Contact and Social Media Directory. Radha Stirling CEO at Detained in Dubai  & Due Process International +44 7 309 114 195 Detained in Dubai: http://www.detainedindubai.org Detained in Doha: https://www.detainedindoha.org Radha Stirling: http://www.radhastirling.com CLAN - Crypto Legal Advocacy Network: https://www.bitclan.org/ Due Process International: http://www.dueprocess.international IPEX - Interpol & Extradition Reform & Defence Experts: https://www.ipexreform.com/ Interpol Red Notice https://www.interpolrednotice.com/  Podcast: http://www.gulfinjustice.news Gulf Investment Monitor: https://www.gulfinvestmentmonitor.com/   Princess Latifa: www.princesslatifa.org   Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/detainedindubai YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/detainedindubai X (Twitter): https://x.com/RadhaStirling   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/radhastirling   Live news and updates on Telegram: https://t.me/stirlingnews mail: info@detainedindubai.org  / Press queries: press@detainedindubai.org Phone: +447309114195  WhatsApp: Click here Guides, Press Packs, Books and Information Pamphlets by Radha Stirling. Free to download. click here click here click here click here Take our risk assessment quiz before booking a ticket to #Dubai . Check your police case status before travel. This simple precaution prevents arrest on arrival.

Marcus Fakana JAILED

Marcus Fakana begins 1-year prison sentence in Dubai. Hoping for a pardon from @HHShkMohd
& assistance from #UKFCDO @DavidLammy

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Stuart heading home for Christmas Stuart Quiney faced a harsh sentence in Dubai over allegations he sent “threatening” emojis from Ireland to a Belgian man in Dubai. But Radha Stirling , founder of Detained in Dubai  broke the news on X that he is currently in flight from Dubai to Dublin. “Absolutely ecstatic that Stuart’s nightmare is over. These were serious allegations and it was touch and go but after an intense few weeks of work, we were able to get Stuart home with just a AED 10,000 fine. The public should be aware that Stuart was lucky to get away without going to prison. His ordeal could have been prevented had he instructed a  UAE Police Check   before travel and we’d encourage repeat visitors to investigate their status before booking. “The UAE Cybercrime Laws are so vague that almost everyone visiting the UAE is already in violation before they arrive. The UAE applies its laws extraterritorially so visitors can be charged with online communication made from outside the country, even years before travelling to the Emirates.” Stuart was very relieved to be making it home for Christmas. Before boarding, he told Ms Stirling   “Thanks again Radha for all you have done, my mother and father also can’t thank you enough for everything. Forever in your debt.” Still a little anxious while still on the ground, he continued,  “I can’t wait for that moment (boarding the flight). It has been an emotional rollercoaster the past month. Probably feel the relief when I’m in the air. Thanks again for what you have done for me. Myself and family will be forever grateful to you and your team. I’m still a bit on edge until I’m actually in the air”. Stirling confirmed Mr Quiney is expected to arrive in Dublin this evening.   “Stuart will get to spend Christmas at home and we are very happy for him and his family.” Detained in Dubai’s work will continue throughout the holiday period. Stirling says, “ Craig Ballentine was charged over a negative Google review. He was then sentenced to a fine but the prosecution appealed, they want a harsher sentence which is absolutely ridiculous for a review. The UAE shouldn’t allow local companies to even request reviews if they are going to jail people for their honesty”. 18 year old Marcus Fakana has been sentenced to one year in prison for consensual sex with someone who was one month off being 18.   “Marcus is anguishing over whether to appeal and possibly risk a harsher sentence. This is no way for a young British tourist to be spending their Christmas. It wasn’t necessary and should never have escalated beyond a misdemeanour with a fine or deportation order. Maurice Kevin O’Rourke was sentenced to life in prison for transiting through Dubai with medicinal cannabis products needed to manage his rare and life threatening Addison’s disease. The Canadian government is appealing on humanitarian grounds, given the medical support he requires. His court date is scheduled for Christmas day. It’s unfathomable what the family is going through”. Stirling urged the public to contact Detained in Dubai as quickly as possible after an arrest. The organisation works with specialist lawyers in different fields.   “It’s imperative to get the right lawyer for the job, something that’s very difficult to do when most people just use the list of lawyers provided by the Embassy”. Stirling has written an ebook guide to Lawyers in Dubai (to get your copy at the Detained in Dubai Website, click here . Or follow any of the alternative options below.) click here click here click here click here "Lawyers in Dubai. An essential Guide by Radha Stirling."   Available at amazon uk, click here Also available by Radha Stirling: STIRLINGPRESS: Interpol Abuse: Press Pack. (click the relevant image above, use this link  to their section on the Detained in Dubai website, or click HERE  for a direct download in .pdf format) Radha Stirling: INTERPOL FAQ (click the relevant image above, use this link to their section on the Detained in Dubai website, or click HERE  for a direct download in .pdf format) Further Information, Contact and Social Media Directory Radha Stirling CEO at Detained in Dubai  & Due Process International +44 7 309 114 195 Detained in Dubai: http://www.detainedindubai.org Detained in Doha: https://www.detainedindoha.org Radha Stirling: http://www.radhastirling.com CLAN - Crypto Legal Advocacy Network: https://www.bitclan.org/ Due Process International: http://www.dueprocess.international IPEX - Interpol & Extradition Reform & Defence Experts: https://www.ipexreform.com/ Interpol Red Notice https://www.interpolrednotice.com/  Podcast: http://www.gulfinjustice.news Gulf Investment Monitor: https://www.gulfinvestmentmonitor.com/   Princess Latifa: www.princesslatifa.org   Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/detainedindubai YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/detainedindubai X (Twitter): https://x.com/RadhaStirling   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/radhastirling   Live news and updates on Telegram: https://t.me/stirlingnews mail: info@detainedindubai.org  / Press queries: press@detainedindubai.org Phone: +447309114195  WhatsApp: Click here

Breaking: Irishman charged in Dubai over emojis is FREE

Stuart Quiney faced a harsh sentence in Dubai over allegations he sent “threatening” emojis is currently in flight from Dubai to Dublin.

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David Lammy essentially removed himself as Foreign Secretary in the case of Marcus Fakana.  Now, they are appealing to opposition parties to help. Tottenham MP and Foreign Secretary, David Lammy, has claimed in a Sky news interview that, “It would not be appropriate for me to comment on any individual case except to say that of course as you would expect, his family have had all the full support available” , but Marcus’s family know that’s not true. Lammy claimed that he could only act as either MP or Foreign Secretary due to “a conflict” then chose to act as MP, essentially removing himself as Foreign Secretary. Marcus’s family were stunned that he refused to act as a Foreign Secretary for Marcus. “If Marcus were from any other area in the UK, his MP would have lobbied Lammy to enter diplomatic conversations with his Dubai counterparts”, explained Radha Stirling , CEO of Detained in Dubai , who is representing the family. “It’s outrageous to remove himself from the case. He clearly did not want to help or have those conversations with the Dubai government. He is absolutely fine to see a young British tourist jailed for relations with someone who was one month away from being 18, simply saying you should follow the law. "We have seen numerous unfair prosecutions over the past 17 years for ‘crimes’ like social media posts, sharing charities online, drinking alcohol provided onboard a flight, using a VPN or complaining about noise to a neighbour. David Lammy is absolutely able to diplomatically secure a non-custodial sentence for Marcus if he does his job as MP and Foreign Secretary. We and the Fakana family will lobby every constituent of Tottenham to make it well known he does not effectively represent them. We urge the British public to make their voices heard for Marcus and write to David Lammy expressing their concerns. Stirling continued, “we have contacted the opposition, including Reform UK to express our disappointment at how the labor party is handling Marcus’s life. We have recently worked with the Vice President Elect, JD Vance, who was able to get his constituents home in just two weeks. He genuinely cared and got the job done. Another client of ours has just received good news that he won’t get a custodial sentence for sending allegedly threatening emojis. Ireland got Tori Towey home in just one week while Canada got André Gauthier home despite him having around 70 separate charges against him. There is absolutely no need for a custodial sentence for Marcus. He should not lose his freedom for consensual sex with another British tourist, something that is completely legal in the UK. A fine and deportation as well as the past several months of stress and anxiety is damaging enough.” The public outcry surrounding Marcus has been widespread: “Marcus is very grateful for the support he’s received, for every single message, TikTok and social media post. He’s asking people to write to David Lammy and express their concerns over the lack of diplomatic intervention. The fact is, we see other countries helping their citizens and we’ve even see Jeremy Hunt threaten sanctions. It’s not that hard. Just ask JD Vance”. Further Information, Contact and Social Media Directory Radha Stirling CEO at Detained in Dubai  & Due Process International +44 7 309 114 195 Detained in Dubai: http://www.detainedindubai.org Detained in Doha: https://www.detainedindoha.org Radha Stirling: http://www.radhastirling.com CLAN - Crypto Legal Advocacy Network: https://www.bitclan.org/ Due Process International: http://www.dueprocess.international IPEX - Interpol & Extradition Reform & Defence Experts: https://www.ipexreform.com/ Interpol Red Notice https://www.interpolrednotice.com/  Podcast: http://www.gulfinjustice.news Gulf Investment Monitor: https://www.gulfinvestmentmonitor.com/   Princess Latifa: www.princesslatifa.org   Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/detainedindubai YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/detainedindubai X (Twitter): https://x.com/RadhaStirling   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/radhastirling   Live news and updates on Telegram: https://t.me/stirlingnews mail: info@detainedindubai.org  / Press queries: press@detainedindubai.org Phone: +447309114195  WhatsApp: Click here

If Marcus Fakana spends a single day in prison, it’s on David Lammy

David Lammy is absolutely able to diplomatically secure a non-custodial sentence for Marcus if he does his job as MP and Foreign Secretary.

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8 year old facing Dubai jail over holiday romance stunned at lack of help from David Lammy & FCDO.  18 year old Marcus Fakana faces court on Monday after being charged with having sex with a 17 year old British girl while on holiday in September 2024. She has since turned 18 sparking bewilderment amongst the British youth culture who can imagine themselves in similar situations. “Is Dubai really the place to go to be cool?” “Parents of teens and even the youth themselves are questioning whether Dubai is all it’s made out to be. After the excitement of a barrage of reality tv shows that paint the city as a kind of Beverly Hills, a hot destination for young influencers and those with a dream. The reality is that it can be a very dangerous place for young people”. [ Radha Stirling , founder of Detained in Dubai  who is helping Marcus has been fielding questions from the public since the case went viral.] Marcus Fakana and his family members told Ms Stirling today they’re upset that Mr David Lammy, MP, the Foreign Secretary, has seemingly not followed up on the case. “He sent a couple of letters but we’ve heard nothing back. I appear in court on Monday and all they have done is send a couple of letters. I am not aware of any diplomatic communications or meetings with UAE counterparts. I feel abandoned, that I am going to lose my life over this, before it’s even really begun” -  Marcus Fakana Stirling has long criticised the FCDO but praised certain MP’s and Lords for their diligent attention to supporting their constituents and promoting human rights abroad.   “ We have seen some superb representation from British representatives. Kenny McAskill, Emma Lewell-Buck & Crispin Blunt went above and beyond to help their constituents get home. We know it can be done and when it is, it is usually successful. We only have to look at the Vice President Elect, JD Vance, and his recent and phenomenal success in helping two Ohio brothers facing Dubai prison and Ireland’s massive intervention to bring Tori Towey home as examples of what can be achieved when there is a will. The UK is better positioned than most countries to help their citizens. “Marcus is 18 years old, but faces the demise of his entire life for being intimate with someone in his same school year, who is his same age. This is where Dubai authorities need to be intelligent about their application of the law. Marcus had consensual relations with someone his own age, from his own country while on a short holiday. He does not deserve to be locked up in Dubai Central Prison for a fling”. Detained in Dubai   suggests that travel warnings are actively issued to tourists at the point of ticket purchase and that check-in operators ask passengers if they are travelling with any objects or prescriptions that could be illegal in the transit country or final destination. “This would potentially prevent unnecessary arrests and is quite a simple, non-invasive procedure to protect citizens”, says Ms Stirling.  “The best solution is prevention. We encourage travellers to take our   risk assessment quiz  and order a   police status check  before visiting Dubai. This would reduce arrests significantly. “We hope Dubai authorities will see the sense in allowing Marcus to come home before Christmas. He has truly been through enough. This experience will leave lifelong scars. I really feel his pain when we talk.” Further Information, Contact and Social Media Directory Radha Stirling CEO at Detained in Dubai  & Due Process International +44 7 309 114 195 Detained in Dubai: http://www.detainedindubai.org Detained in Doha: https://www.detainedindoha.org Radha Stirling: http://www.radhastirling.com UAE Police Check (UAEPC): https://uaepolicecheck.com/ CLAN - Crypto Legal Advocacy Network: https://www.bitclan.org/ Due Process International: http://www.dueprocess.international IPEX - Interpol & Extradition Reform & Defence Experts: https://www.ipexreform.com/ Interpol Red Notice https://www.interpolrednotice.com/  Podcast: http://www.gulfinjustice.news Gulf Investment Monitor: https://www.gulfinvestmentmonitor.com/   Princess Latifa: www.princesslatifa.org   Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/detainedindubai YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/detainedindubai X (Twitter): https://x.com/RadhaStirling   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/radhastirling   Live news and updates on Telegram: https://t.me/stirlingnews mail: info@detainedindubai.org  / Press queries: press@detainedindubai.org Phone: +447309114195  WhatsApp: Click here

18 year old facing Dubai jail over holiday romance stunned at lack of help from David Lammy MP

Detained in Dubai suggests that travel warnings are issued to travellers en route to Dubai at the point of ticket purchase

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Urgent requests for Saudi to reject Egypt's politically motivated extradition request A commercial sales executive, husband and father of two young children has been locked up in a Saudi Arabian jail, fighting for his freedom and life, after Egypt issued a politically motivated Interpol Red Notice and extradition request. In an X post, Virginia Congressman Don Beyer has urged KSA to halt the extradition and release him. Rep. Beyer posted,  “Ahmed Kamel was unjustly persecuted and tortured for participating in nonviolent protests during the Arab Spring in Egypt. I urge the Government of Saudi Arabia to halt his extradition to Egypt and move towards his immediate release from detention.” 33 year old Ahmed Kamel is yet another victim of the Egyptian regime’s political persecutions against those who participated in the 2011-2014 non violent protests. Ahmed Kamel joined millions across Egypt in peaceful protests but the regime’s brutal crackdown on dissent resulted in Ahmed fighting for his life after a gunshot wound. He and thousands of others were rounded up, tortured and jailed in the most horrendous conditions. Ahmed managed to escape Egypt but the regime’s attack on freedom of expression continued. Egypt repeatedly wielded the power of Interpol to have their targets harassed, arrested abroad and subjected to lengthy extradition proceedings.   “While it is against the rules of Interpol to issue an Interpol Red Notice for politically motivated reasons, countries who seek to do so can disguise their motivations by misreporting the crime”, explains Interpol and extradition expert Radha Stirling , founder of IPEX Reform , who is assisting Ahmed’s family. “Egypt is one of the most prolific offenders and has even issued Red Notices against American citizens who have never been to Egypt, just for their political views and online commentary." “The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has wisely rejected politically motivated extradition requests including that of our client last year, British citizen Christopher Emms. We hope they will see the serious threat to Ahmed’s life and grave human rights violations he would face in the event he were extradited to Egypt. Egypt’s request is a politically motivated vendetta against freedom of expression, speech and opposition”. Ahmed’s American wife and two young US citizen children are desperate to get him home.   “If he is sent to Egypt, they fear they will never see him again, that he will be killed in custody and they will, too, be at risk. The whole family is in distress”, relays Stirling. “We are hopeful Saudi will deny the extradition and release Ahmed as soon as possible. We also encourage Elon Musk's DOGE to review US membership with Interpol. The US is the largest Interpol donor but Interpol is too often weaponized by member states with poor human rights records who target US persons for their political vendettas. Interpol enjoys complete immunity but unlimited power to destroy people’s lives and risk their freedom. All of this is being funded by the United States. “We will request Interpol delete the Red Notice against Mr Kamel but once extradition proceedings are underway, sometimes it can be too late as we saw in the very public case of Hakeem al-Araibi". Stirling recently assisted US citizen Sherif Osman who also faced extradition to Egypt for his political views. Further Information, Contact and Social Media Directory Radha Stirling CEO at Detained in Dubai  & Due Process International +44 7 309 114 195 Detained in Dubai: http://www.detainedindubai.org Detained in Doha: https://www.detainedindoha.org Radha Stirling: http://www.radhastirling.com CLAN - Crypto Legal Advocacy Network: https://www.bitclan.org/ Due Process International: http://www.dueprocess.international IPEX - Interpol & Extradition Reform & Defence Experts: https://www.ipexreform.com/ Interpol Red Notice https://www.interpolrednotice.com/  Podcast: http://www.gulfinjustice.news Gulf Investment Monitor: https://www.gulfinvestmentmonitor.com/   Princess Latifa: www.princesslatifa.org   Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/detainedindubai YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/detainedindubai X (Twitter): https://x.com/RadhaStirling   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/radhastirling   Live news and updates on Telegram: https://t.me/stirlingnews mail: info@detainedindubai.org  / Press queries: press@detainedindubai.org Phone: +447309114195  WhatsApp: Click here

Virginia Congressman urges Saudi to halt extradition

Husband and father of two is in a Saudi jail, after Egypt issued a politically motivated Interpol Red Notice and extradition request.

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Breaking: Irishman faces Dubai prison over drunken emojis A 39 year old property renovator from   Laragh in County Wicklow is facing Dubai jail after being accused of sending threatening emojis from Ireland to a Belgian acquaintance he says took his possessions without permission. In January 2022, Stuart Quiney accompanied his friend to Dubai to help him set up his new life. He was introduced to a Belgian resident who assisted his friend to get an apartment by providing a local ID. Stuart stayed with his friend for two months, enjoying a short break from the Irish winter. The keen golfer and gardener had intended to return a week later to spend more time with his friend. He left some of his belongings in the apartment. While both he and his friend were away, the Belgian let himself into the place and removed all of their personal belongings without permission. Stuart was understandably upset and hoped he’d be able to recover his things, they were personal to him including small but sentimental gifts from his late grandmother. Stuart drafted multiple legal letters but they were completely ignored. “I don’t really mind the clothes, it’s just those things that were my grandmother’s and a gift from a friend that is very important to me”, he told crisis manager Radha Stirling , the founder of Detained in Dubai . “I came over in June last year and sent him a few messages, basically saying I wanted my things back or I would go to the police but I got no reply again”. After returning to Ireland, he got some more bad news. His grandmother was suffering dementia and being moved into a home. “It hit him very hard”, relays Stirling. “She is his best friend. He dealt with the pain by drinking alcohol, something he only does once or twice a year. In a drunken state, he must remembered the theft of his other grandmother’s gift, reached for his phone and sent some emojis (eg. ninja man and blood drop) to the Belgian.” Mr Quiney told Ms Stirling, “I very rarely drink so this is completely out of character for me. I’ve never been in trouble with the law” He didn’t think anything of it when he booked his next flight to visit his friend. In fact, he did not even remember sending them at the time or afterwards. “It was a very difficult time”,  When Stuart arrived on the 6th of September, he was immediately taken into custody, transported to Al Barsha police station and told he could not leave the country. 12 weeks later, Stuart is still stuck in Dubai and set to go in front of a prosecutor tomorrow. He has been advised that he could face several years in prison under strict laws that prohibit rude, offensive or threatening text messages, even if expressed sarcastically, jokingly between close friends or loved ones. “Stuart’s mother has been in touch with the accuser and they have both apologised, but he has said he won’t withdraw the case.” Radha Stirling has said on many occasions that Dubai’s strict laws are often abused by complainants who open police cases merely as a means to extort victims. “It’s unconscionable that this is allowed to happen. It puts people at risk of false allegations and wrongful prosecutions”. Stuart is currently staying with a friend while on a travel ban. He is relying on financial support from his family, can’t work and is suffering sleepless nights, sickness and extreme anxiety. “He fears he won’t see his beloved grandmother before she passes and is praying he gets home before Christmas. “ It’s important for repeat visitors to Dubai to obtain  a police check  in advance of travel. Checking prior to travel prevents a significant number of arrests and would have prevented the gruelling nightmares that both Stuart Quiney and Craig Ballentine are experiencing now. “Northern Ireland resident Craig Ballentine is also facing Dubai justice over a negative online review made from the UK before he travelled. “Previously, Laleh Sharahvesh was arrested over a five year old Facebook post made from England. “The UAE’s Cybercrime laws are highly dangerous to tourists. They are unclear, subjective, arbitrarily enforced and the punishments can be severe.” Stuart and his family are reaching out to Wicklow representatives, Edward Timmins, TD, John Brady (SF), Jennifer Whitmore (SD) and Simon Harris (FG) for help. “It wasn’t an ideal message but it was made at a very distressing time in Stuart’s life. He has apologised and regrets the message but was clearly provoked by the removal of his personal items and the frustrating lack of response from the complainant. He’s suffered extreme stress, anxiety and health issues from being forced to stay in Dubai for the past three months while anticipating prison. The UAE needs an expeditious legal process for tourists who should be deported or banned from re-entering at worst. “We also suggest authorities investigate complainants who misuses the criminal justice system for cash”. Further Information, Contact and Social Media Directory Radha Stirling CEO at Detained in Dubai  & Due Process International +44 7 309 114 195 Detained in Dubai: http://www.detainedindubai.org Detained in Doha: https://www.detainedindoha.org Radha Stirling: http://www.radhastirling.com CLAN - Crypto Legal Advocacy Network: https://www.bitclan.org/ Due Process International: http://www.dueprocess.international IPEX - Interpol & Extradition Reform & Defence Experts: https://www.ipexreform.com/ Interpol Red Notice https://www.interpolrednotice.com/  Podcast: http://www.gulfinjustice.news Gulf Investment Monitor: https://www.gulfinvestmentmonitor.com/   Princess Latifa: www.princesslatifa.org   Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/detainedindubai YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/detainedindubai X (Twitter): https://x.com/RadhaStirling   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/radhastirling   Live news and updates on Telegram: https://t.me/stirlingnews mail: info@detainedindubai.org  / Press queries: press@detainedindubai.org Phone: +447309114195  WhatsApp: Click here

Irishman faces Dubai prison over text message emoji

An Irish National is facing Dubai jail after being accused of sending threatening emojis.

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Shocking life sentence for 64 year old Ontario man, from Mississauga, for his own doctor recommended medicine. Canadian carpenter Maurice Kevin O’Rourke (“Kevin”), was transiting through Dubai on his way to South Africa to meet colleagues when he was charged for carrying his own medicine essential to alleviate his Addison’s disease symptoms. Kevin, who suffers from the rare and life-threatening Addison’s disease, uses CBD oil and cannabis as recommended by his Canadian doctor to manage his chronic pain.  It is completely legal in Canada, even without a prescription. While traveling from Canada to Africa, Kevin didn't think his medical use CBD would be an issue. However, on July 3rd, he was stopped, searched, and detained at Dubai International Airport. During the search, authorities discovered the CBD oil, CBD, and cannabis that Kevin was carrying for personal use. The Arrest Pamela O’Rourke, his wife of 42 years explained,   “Kevin suffers from Addison’s disease. He’s in chronic pain and was prescribed Cannabis and CBD oil for pain management and sleep. He was arrested and taken to Al Awir prison where he has been since July. “ When he was arrested, local doctors  had a hard time getting the medications, which impacted his immune system. He contracted an MRSA infection, had 2 emergency surgeries, spent 40 days in hospital and has subsequently been fighting an infection. He has an open wound in prison, in 3 months he went from being strong and healthy to being in a wheelchair. It’s been incredibly distressing and life threatening for him.” The Sentence “On the 31st of October, Kevin was sentenced to life in prison. Our world fell apart. Our daughter Maegan and I are shattered. We’re in disbelief. Kevin accepts that he shouldn’t have travelled while on medication but he doesn’t deserve to spend the rest of his life in prison. It was an innocent mistake.” Radha Stirling , Crisis Manager and CEO of human rights organisation Detained in Dubai  who i s helping the family, has seen numerous arrests over prescription medication, including pain medication like Codeine. “There is a lot of confusion over whether certain medication is allowed in Dubai. Staff at the UAE Embassy have even given contradictory advice to visitors and enforcement of the laws is arbitrary. Many visitors with CBD have been denied entry/deported while others have had their controlled substances confiscated and been allowed to continue their holiday. It can be very confusing and a lot of tourists make the mistake of believing, as Kevin did, that their prescription is valid or medication allowed everywhere. Countries need to have some understanding and compassion for people who genuinely intended no wrong. “Unfortunately, Dubai police and prosecutors are incentivised to prosecute drug cases, even when we are talking about prescription meds for personal use. “It is unfathomable that Kevin was sentenced to life in prison and a 500,000 AED fine (around $190,000 CAD). The reason for the harsh sentence is that the prosecution combined the weights of each medicine to ensure it exceeded 100g and that he would get the harshest sentence. He brought 118g in total, consisting of cannabis, cbd and cbd oil. Had they charged the amounts individually, he would not have been handed such a shocking sentence. “ Even without a custodial sentence, $190,000 is a huge amount that most people cannot afford. If they can’t pay the fine, they won’t be allowed to leave”. Appeal Kevin is appealing the sentence and has been given a trial date of Christmas day this year. If the original judgement is upheld, Kevin will die in Dubai jail.   “Dubai’s prison system will not provide adequate medical care and he will be deprived of necessary medication and care”, adds Stirling. “The suffering of prisoners is not of concern to authorities in the UAE. British grandfather Albert Douglas has first hand experience of being denied heart medication and denied surgery for broken bones he suffered after being beaten by prison guards. “Kevin will not survive in their care. He is too fragile and at risk of infection and life threatening complications as a result of his disease. We urge the Canadian government and particularly his MP, Peter Fonseca, to work with their counterparts in the UAE to help Kevin home. The last thing either country wants is a death in custody. “We have seen rapists and murderers sentenced to just a few years in jail. How can the courts sentence an older man to life in prison for possessing medication for personal use. This is a man who has made a genuine mistake. Dubai needs to be sensible here. He was just in transit and did not intentionally put himself in harm's way. He is ill and in need of ongoing and constant medical care. From a human rights perspective, we hope the government of Dubai will understand and allow him to come home”. Family Impact The impact on the O’Rourke family has been devastating. Their health, family, business and finances have been destroyed.   “There need to be more warnings”, says Ms Stirling. “If the airlines were required to provide travel advice to customers at the time of booking the flight or even at the gate, many arrests would be prevented. Had Kevin realised, he simply wouldn’t have flown. Even if we argue that ignorance is no excuse, why not do everything we can to educate travellers? Dubai has become a leading international transit hub, is marketed as a modern city and it’s foreseeable that people can easily be confused by the laws which are frequently changing. Most people would have no idea that their social media posts violate the law, or that cannabis residue stays in your body for up to two months and possessing it in your bloodstream in Dubai is a crime. Visitors have been arrested for codeine and all sorts of medications. Canadian Government Intervention “We hope the Canadian government is able to help Kevin as they did   André Gauthier and hope the government of Dubai shows some mercy to his family. “We have written to Peter Fonseca, MP and hope he can work with Mélanie Joly PC MP and Justin Trudeau, PM to help the O’Rourke family before it’s too late.” Further Information, Contact and Social Media Directory Radha Stirling CEO at Detained in Dubai  & Due Process International +44 7 309 114 195 Detained in Dubai: http://www.detainedindubai.org Detained in Doha: https://www.detainedindoha.org Radha Stirling: http://www.radhastirling.com CLAN - Crypto Legal Advocacy Network: https://www.bitclan.org/ Due Process International: http://www.dueprocess.international IPEX - Interpol & Extradition Reform & Defence Experts: https://www.ipexreform.com/ Interpol Red Notice https://www.interpolrednotice.com/  Podcast: http://www.gulfinjustice.news Gulf Investment Monitor: https://www.gulfinvestmentmonitor.com/   Princess Latifa: www.princesslatifa.org   Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/detainedindubai YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/detainedindubai X (Twitter): https://x.com/RadhaStirling   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/radhastirling   Live news and updates on Telegram: https://t.me/stirlingnews mail: info@detainedindubai.org  / Press queries: press@detainedindubai.org Phone: +447309114195  WhatsApp: Click here

Ontario man sentenced to LIFE in Dubai jail over meds

Ontario man sentenced to LIFE in Dubai jail over meds needed for rare Addison's disease.

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An 18 year old Tottenham resident’s holiday with his parents has turned into a months-long ordeal that could lead to 20 years in prison after he was charged with sex with woman who was 17 at the time.  She's now 18. Marcus Fakana joined his parents for what was supposed to be a short holiday from the 26th of August. During his vacation, he met a fellow Londoner staying at the same hotel, and a holiday romance blossomed. They tried to spend as much time as they could together during their trip and got along so well, they hoped the romance would continue on their return home. ‘We had a wonderful time together. We really liked each other but she was secretive with her (British-Indian) family because they were strict. 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”,  Marcus recalls. “When she left, I couldn’t wait to see her again when I got home. Then suddenly, police knocked on our hotel door. They said they were taking me in for questioning but wouldn't tell me why. I couldn’t imagine what for. I was frightened and my parents were terrified”. Marcus was held at the notorious Al Barsha Police Station for three days, unable to make a phone call or speak with his parents. “They were worried sick”,  reports Radha Stirling , CEO of Detained in Dubai  who is assisting Marcus. “He was told his girlfriend’s mother had reported the relationship to authorities in Dubai after she had arrived back in London. Marcus later found out the mother had looked on her daughter’s phone and found their chats and pictures. She was furious and reported him to Dubai's police. “This is clearly a very strict mother to involve police in a private matter that is completely legal in the country where she lives and where the children have grown up. Perhaps she wasn’t aware that she triggered the possibility of a young man of only 18 spending the next 20 years in prison. “Dubai has only recently legalised out of wedlock sex for tourists but still hosts a strict Islamic legal system. 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 is not something Dubai should be prosecuting.  “Parents will be scared to take their older teenagers on vacation with them where they could end up losing their lives over behaviour that’s completely legal in their own countries”, adds Stirling. Marcus and his family are calling on local MP, Rt Hon David Lammy for assistance. Ms Stirling, an expert witness herself, says, “Mr Lammy MP was appointed as the Foreign Secretary in July 2024 and is in a perfect position to help young Marcus. Dubai police have the power to drop the case against Marcus and let him come home. This is not something we want to do to young people and we ask Mr Lammy MP to convey this message to his counterparts in the UAE”. Marcus told Ms Stirling today, “I’m living in Airbnb’s that are costing my family £2,000 per month. They had to go home to work. They earn a humble living, my mother is a cleaner and my dad works in a warehouse. They saved up for this one off holiday and they have now used all of their savings. The police demanded 10,000 AED for bail which I’ve been told is not normal and the costs are mounting. I’m here all alone. I pray this nightmare will be over and I’ll be home for Christmas. Further Information, Contact and Social Media Directory Radha Stirling CEO at Detained in Dubai  & Due Process International +44 7 309 114 195 Detained in Dubai: http://www.detainedindubai.org Detained in Doha: https://www.detainedindoha.org   Radha Stirling: http://www.radhastirling.com CLAN - Crypto Legal Advocacy Network: https://www.bitclan.org/ Due Process International: http://www.dueprocess.international IPEX - Interpol & Extradition Reform & Defence Experts: https://www.ipexreform.com/ Interpol Red Notice https://www.interpolrednotice.com/  Podcast: http://www.gulfinjustice.news Gulf Investment Monitor: https://www.gulfinvestmentmonitor.com/   Princess Latifa: www.princesslatifa.org   Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/detainedindubai YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/detainedindubai X (Twitter): https://x.com/RadhaStirling   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/radhastirling   Live news and updates on Telegram: https://t.me/stirlingnews mail: info@detainedindubai.org  / Press queries: press@detainedindubai.org Phone: +447309114195  WhatsApp: Click here

18yr old Londoner detained in Dubai over sex with 17 year old Brit

UK resident’s holiday became an ordeal that could lead to 20 years in prison after being charged with sex with woman who was 17 at the time

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