top of page

NEWS

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.

Read More
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

Read More
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.

Read More
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.

Read More
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.

Read More
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

Read More
Trish McCabe, from Dublin, is begging the Irish government to get her daughter and granddaughter home. “It’s not that complicated”, she says. Her daughter Alma, 36, and granddaughter Isabella, 4, have been stuck in Abu Dhabi since March 2022 as her German ex-husband put a travel ban on Isabella. The UAE family courts have awarded Alma full custody and parental responsibility but the Irish Embassy has so far not pushed the UAE to delete a travel ban placed on Isabella during a custody dispute. “My daughter has been through an unbelievable traumatic time in the Emirates. It’s been hell but she’s won all parental rights and thought she’d be able to return home to Ireland. She’s won everything. All she wants is to come home to her family and the only thing standing in her way is a local travel ban. “The Embassy has said they can’t really do anything but it’s a really simple request. She has custody. Isabella is an Irish citizen, was born in Ireland and they just need to come home. After everything they’ve been through, we just want to be reunited”,  pleaded Alma. Radha Stirling , founder of Detained in Dubai , who worked with the Irish government to get Tori Towey  home, weighed in, “I’ve come to know Alma and her mum Trish recently. They were hoping the custody win would remove the travel ban on Isabella and it should have, but unfortunately, things move very slowly in the UAE and there is little concern for the effect this is having on Alma and Isabella." " If they are to be free to leave the UAE, it’s going to require some diplomatic conversations between the Irish and UAE governments and we hope they will get involved and bring these citizens home. “When marriages end in Dubai, the legal process is a nightmare for foreigners. It’s something to consider for families and couples considering relocating. If anything goes wrong, they are faced with an often unfair and painful judiciary. " "Despite the odds being stacked against her, Alma has won her cases and wants nothing more than to be home for Christmas and able to heal from a truly difficult and frightening experience.” Alma and Trish have reached out to representatives including Taoiseach Simon Harris, Mary Lou McDonald and Michael Martin. Detained in Dubai suggests the government of Ireland liaise with the UAE’s foreign office and Ambassador to help Alma home. 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

Irish mother pleads for help as daughter & granddaughter stuck in UAE

Trish McCabe, wants the Irish government to get her daughter and granddaughter out of Abu Dhabi where theyve been trapped since March 2022 .

Read More
Craig Ballentine on X Spaces: NI man detained in Dubai over Google review to speak in live X Spaces Northern Ireland man facing Dubai jail over online Google review is set to join Detained in Dubai  CEO, Radha Stirling , on X Spaces . Craig Ballentine will be joined by close friend Sean Morgan, who spoke of the ordeal, "It’s ridiculous. Craig is the kindest man you’ll ever meet. He’s always volunteering and helping others. He has been treated appallingly and he just doesn’t deserve it." Ms Stirling, who is representing Craig, announced “The amount of support Craig has is quite incredible. We’ve had members of government and the House of Lords reach out to offer assistance as well as the public offering to lend a hand. Charging someone for an online review is something everyone can imagine happening to them. We’ve received an influx of worried tourists contacting us to check their police status in Dubai and it’s certainly a good idea. “If it is illegal to leave anything other than a five star review, perhaps Dubai based tourist hotspots shouldn’t allow reviews at all.” “The Australian woman who opened this case against Craig could drop it at any time. He deleted the review and even apologised in a mercy bid but she seems keen to weaponize the UAE justice system and have him locked up. Complainants can be vindictive or in many instances, are seeking financial payouts to drop criminal cases. It’s quite ugly but the practice is rewarded and therefore encouraged. “I look forward to hosting Craig on X, Sean and other friends and family who may join. I encourage people to participate, ask questions and discuss the issues”. 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

Craig Ballentine on X Spaces: NI man detained in Dubai over Google review to speak in live X Spaces

Northern Ireland man facing Dubai jail over online Google review is set to join Detained in Dubai CEO, Radha Stirling, on X Spaces.

Read More
Friends and family rally behind Belfast man arrested in Dubai over Google review Friends and family have rallied behind Craig Ballentine, an autism support worker from Northern Ireland who faces prosecution in Dubai over a negative Google review. His mother, Margaret Ballentine, called on the Foreign Office and UAE Ambassador to help. “I am very worried for my son and I’m calling on the Foreign Office to help him and for the UAE Ambassador to see that the charges against my son are just very silly. This has all been so stressful. The thought of Craig going to prison over a Google review is just horrendous, we are all suffering sleepless nights and anxiety. It’s just not something I ever imagined possible. How can someone be so vindictive as to lock another up over a negative social media review? Why couldn’t she just ask him to take it down? Why criminalise someone and try to jail them? This is going too far. He didn’t use bad language, he just expressed his views which is what you’re supposed to do on review sites. We call on the government, the Foreign Office and Dubai authorities to please let our son come home”. Close friend Sean Morgan also had something to say. A close friend of Craig’s is furious. Sean Morgan, who has known Craig for years, is helping as much as he can, but is upset at the thought that an online post could see his friend locked up in Dubai’s notorious jails.   “Since Craig’s arrest, I’ve learned that it’s actually common for tourists to be arrested for leaving a 1 or 2 star reviews of tourist facilities like hotels or restaurants. I had no idea. How can a tourist destination make it illegal to say anything bad about service providers? 99% of tourists aren’t going to know this. I had no idea that the law could be applied to reviews made from outside the country too. It’s ridiculous. Craig is the kindest man you’ll ever meet. He’s always volunteering and helping others. He has been treated appallingly and he just doesn’t deserve it. I’m doing everything I can to help get him home. I’m asking people to share his story and raise awareness. We need to do more than that though, we need tourists to be aware they could be jailed for an internet post. They need to know this before even booking a flight. Why aren’t these nightmare stories all over the travel advisory website, the newspapers and travel agencies?” Advanced Police Checks recommended for Dubai tourists. Radha Stirling , CEO o f Detained in Dubai , who  is helping Craig has advised tourists and expats who have visited or lived in the UAE before to check their police status before travelling. “If Craig knew it was a good idea to check his criminal status in advance of flying to Dubai, he would have found out there was a case against him and we could have dealt with it from the safety of abroad. The vast majority of arrests on arrival are preventable by taking this simple precaution. Travel agencies and the Foreign Office should recommend this on their websites. “We urge citizens to get in touch with us and arrange a police check before travel. This preventative action is a life saver for many”. Detained in Dubai has dealt with over 20,000 cases since 2008 and suggests their annual numbers would drop significantly if repeat visitors to the country checked their status before travel. “We are pushing for diplomatic intervention in Craig’s case. Nobody should be locked up abroad or even pushed through the judicial process over an online review. JD Vance was very effective in helping his constituents and the government of Ireland recently secured Tori Towey’s release. We are very hopeful for a positive outcome for Craig too”. 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

Mother of Belfast man detained in Dubai over Google review calls for help

Friends and family have rallied behind Craig Ballentine, an autism support worker from Northern Ireland who faces prosecution in Dubai

Read More
A 33 year old Belfast autism support worker faces prison in Dubai over an online review he made from Northern Ireland months before holidaying in the UAE. “ This case will send shockwaves to tourists and expats who feel safe posting online from the safety of their own countries” , warns Radha Stirling , CEO of Detained in Dubai , who is helping Cookstown resident, Craig Ballentine. Ballentine was arrested three weeks ago when he arrived in Abu Dhabi for a short vacation to visit friends. Surprised and bewildered, he was transported to Dubai to face charges of slander under the UAE’s strict cybercrime laws that prohibit any form of online criticism. “We’ve seen people arrested for complaining to customer service or for leaving online reviews on hotels and rental car agencies”, confirms Ms Stirling. Laleh Shahravesh was arrested for a private Facebook post she had made years before arriving in the tourist destination. “Petty arrests are damaging to Dubai. The UAE’s laws are so far from international standards that almost everyone who visits is already technically a criminal”. In 2023, Craig accepted a role as a dog groomer and one of Dubai’s canine salons. He was employed for almost six months before requiring a couple of days off due to sickness. He was diagnosed with fibromyalgia , informed his boss and sent in his doctor’s certificate but much to his surprise and against Dubai employment law, she registered him as “absconded” with authorities and caused him a legal nightmare. He was now unemployed and trying to remove the travel ban from his passport so he could go home to Northern Ireland. It took him all of two months and thousands of pounds. “We’ve seen people arrested for complaining to customer service or for leaving online reviews on hotels and rental car agencies” After picking up the pieces, he left an online review of the grooming centre and his former boss, noting the problems she had caused him. It wasn’t an abusive post and he had no idea that several months later, he would become a criminal and face prosecution. He is now stuck in the country, absent from his employment as a support worker with autistic people and facing two years in prison. “Craig has been advised by local lawyers there is almost zero chance of the case against him being dropped”, says Stirling. “When someone is offended, even if they are at fault, they can open a criminal prosecution out of spite. Craig deleted the post, apologised but still faces jail. It’s outrageous. “The UAE’s recently enacted Cybercrime laws are a nightmare for foreigners. It is sufficient for a complainant to simply tell police that someone posted something offensive or rude. The police don’t even need to see the actual post. The complainants have all the power and often demand money from the accused to close out the case. It’s a means for vindictive people to extort. Once a criminal case is won, they can also open civil cases for massive damages. The system incentivises it. Flatmates, co-workers and even spouses have abused this law and we find that it’s often foreigners who are taking advantage. In this case, both parties are Western and most people wouldn’t dream of opening a similar case in their own countries but seem quite happy to open them in the UAE”. Ballentine’s parents thought he was dead when they didn't hear from him. “Mum was so upset and stressed, she thought I was dead”, Ballentine told Stirling in a phone call. Ballentine frequently engages in voluntary work and has dedicated his life to helping others. “Craig needs to get home and get to work. It’s atrocious that authorities are allowing such frivolous criminal reports to entangle visitors in the system. The sheer number of cybercrime reports they receive must be significant. There are no protections or safeguards and people’s lives are being ruined. “ We have reached out to Craig’s local representative, Michelle O’Neil to implore her to make diplomatic representations to the UAE’s Ambassador and FCDO. We hope she can assist in the same way Ireland helped Tori Towey come home”. 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

Belfast man arrested in UAE for Google review

Ballentine was arrested three weeks ago when he arrived in Abu Dhabi for a short vacation to visit friends.

Read More
52 year old Charles Wimberly faced years in prison after being charged with trafficking his own prescription medicine. Radha Stirling confirms the case against him has been dropped after the group, Detained in Dubai, lobbied for his release. Atlantic Black Star “I was texting Charles Monday morning while he was at the Dubai courts when authorities broke the news that he would be allowed to leave”,  confirmed overjoyed Radha Stirling , CEO of Detained in Dubai who has been helping Mr Wimberly. “Charles and his family are greatly relieved that he will be allowed to fly home and that he will make it back in time for the election and for his surgery. “It has been an extremely traumatic time for all. Facing time in a Middle Eastern prison is nothing short of a nightmare. With Charles’ preexisting medical requirements, chronic pain and PTSD, any time in prison could have been life threatening. “I thank Rep. Mike Collins for his concern, the media for their important support, those who rallied behind him on social media, including fellow Veteran Joseph Lopez and his family who are still re-adjusting after their Dubai ordeal. Last week, Mr Wimberly confessed, “My PTSD is at a very high level right now... I’m so tired of crying... I can’t stop shaking. My daughter is so upset… I feel like I’ve let everyone down. “I’m hurting because I served my country, and I just want to go home.” Ms Stirling added, “Charles is expected to fly out from Dubai at the first opportunity and is utterly relieved that his ordeal is finally over”. “ However, this is not an isolated incident. Numerous Americans are being arrested, prosecuted and jailed, even where there is no evidence of any crime. A mere allegation is sufficient evidence to lock someone up. The UAE judiciary is noted by the English High Court for unfair trials, discrimination, human rights abuses and torture. It’s not about 'knowing the law' as Candace Owens argued in her podcast, it’s about deep rooted issues within the justice system. When Americans can be locked up on the basis of an allegation, locked up by influential locals who seek to extort them, locked up over a social media post they made in the United States years before travelling, or residual hashish in their bloodstream from up to two months before travel, a glass of wine provided onboard a flight, or complaining about a service to a customer service operator, we can not blame the victim. “The UAE is not safe from these kinds of abuses and we will continue to see tourists facing human rights abuses in the country. Social media influencers and celebrities portray the destination as a safe party place but crime statistics are censored and victims of the justice system are dismissed.” 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

Georgia Navy Vet detained over prescriptions FREED

Radha Stirling confirms the case against Charles Wimberly has been dropped after the group, Detained in Dubai, lobbied for his release.

Read More
An Irish mother urged the government to issue an Interpol Red Notice against her Egyptian husband, Ramy Gamal Maamoun Mohamed, who locked Mandy Kelly in an apartment while on holiday in Egypt and abducted their children. Since the event, Ms Kelly has been awarded custody of her two children in both Ireland and Egypt, but her husband is in hiding. Interpol & Extradition expert,   Radha Stirling , has dealt with multiple cases of international child abduction over the past decade. “Ms Kelly is fortunate that Egyptian authorities have agreed with the findings of the Irish courts and wish for her to be reunited with her children. In other cases, we’ve seen courts in the Middle East usually side with the first person to apply for a custody order and they tend to favour the father”, explained Ms Stirling, founder of Detained in Dubai . Mother asks MP’s to push Middle Eastern allies to join Hague Convention on Child Abduction “There is a trend towards living abroad in places like Dubai and that has proven to be a nightmare if facing a custody dispute. It’s also becoming increasingly common to enter multicultural marriages which puts children at risk of being kidnapped and taken to one parent’s home country. When the home country is not a member of the Hague Convention, it has proven quite easy to abduct children. The abductor simply files a custody application and in most cases, they are successful, particularly because they are a national of that country and are favoured by the courts. “The courts don’t care if the other parent has an Irish or UK court order. They are not bound by it. I have cautioned parents against holidaying or allowing their children to holiday in riskier countries. It’s simply not worth it.” Interpol Red Notice Ms Stirling noted,   “Western countries have been apprehensive to issue Interpol Red Notices in cases of child abduction, especially like in this case where the event occurred in another jurisdiction. However, parents need to feel assured that authorities take child abduction by a parent as seriously as they would if it were a stranger. Child abduction has become normalised and dismissed as simply a ‘dispute’ between bickering spouses. “An Interpol Red Notice can be issued against the father in this case for human trafficking (luring the children to Egypt under false pretences, and kidnapping. Countries in the Middle East have listed Irish citizens on Interpol for petty reasons like bank debt. The Irish government should not hesitate to issue an Interpol warrant in this case either”. Abuse Warning Interpol is open to abuse and weaponisation by vindictive and dangerous spouses. Significant evidence of criminal activity should be necessary to activate a Notice. 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

Mother calls on Ireland to issue Interpol Red Notice to recover kidnapped children from Egypt

Interpol is open to abuse and weaponisation by vindictive and dangerous spouses.

Read More
bottom of page