‘Our son was arrested in Dubai over holiday fling, each day is an uphill battle’

The family of a British teenager detained in Dubai over a holiday romance is facing a harrowing emotional battle as they try to secure his release. Marcus Fakana, an 18-year-old from north London, was arrested after being accused of having a sexual relationship with a 17-year-old British girl during a family trip to the UAE. The girl’s mother reported Marcus to Dubai police upon discovering their relationship, which would have been legal in the UK but is classified as a crime in the UAE.

Marcus’s parents have appealed to HH Sheikh Mohammed Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai, and sought help from Foreign Secretary David Lammy to bring their son back home. They described the toll this ordeal has taken on them emotionally and financially, expressing gratitude for the support they’ve received from the public and media. Marcus is currently awaiting trial, facing a potential prison sentence of up to 20 years under UAE law.

The incident came to light when the girl’s mother found their chats and photos on her daughter’s phone and reported Marcus to the authorities. Marcus and the girl had discreetly spent time together during their holiday, leading to his detention at Al Barsha Police Station. A legitimate GoFundMe campaign has raised over £24,000 for Marcus’s legal defense, although the family has cautioned against a fraudulent fundraiser circulating online.

Despite the challenges they face, Marcus’s family continues to fight for his release, urging authorities to show compassion. They long for the day they can be reunited with their son and remain hopeful amidst this difficult time. This case shines a light on the complexities of legal systems in different countries and the importance of understanding local laws and cultural norms when travelling abroad.

Insight:
The story of Marcus Fakana serves as a stark reminder of the potential legal pitfalls that travellers can encounter in foreign countries due to differing cultural and legal standards. It emphasises the importance of being aware of local laws and respecting them to avoid unintended consequences. The support shown by Marcus’s family and the community highlights the power of solidarity in times of adversity.