Marcus Fakana: Teenager jailed in Dubai pleads for early release
'Heart-breaking start to adulthood'
Radha Stirling, founder of Detained in Dubai said: "This has been the most traumatic and life-altering experience imaginable for Marcus."He is barely an adult himself, and never intended to break any law. What happened was legal in the UK and consensual. But now he is facing permanent damage to his mental health and future prospects because of it."Detained in Dubai said Fakana was only able to call his family sporadically for short periods, adding that the isolation had been mentally and emotionally devastating for both him and his loved ones. His parents have been urgently appealing to Foreign Secretary David Lammy, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and the British Embassy in Dubai for assistance in advocating for his release."If Marcus could go back in time, he would. He has shown remorse and fully respects the laws of the UAE. He only hopes the government will show compassion and allow him to return home to rebuild his life," Ms Stirling added."He's very young and this is a heart-breaking way to begin adulthood."
"Parents need to be aware that teens can be charged in the UAE for behaviour that would not be considered criminal at home, whether that's a relationship, social media activity, or even drinking alcohol," Ms Stirling added.Detained in Dubai warned that the case highlighted the need for increased awareness and diplomatic protections for citizens abroad."Marcus is struggling, and this experience will leave a permanent scar," Ms Stirling said. "We implore Sheikh Mohammed and the government of Dubai to hear his pleas and let him come home."The government of Dubai previously said: "Under UAE law, the girl is legally classified as a minor and, in accordance with procedures recognised internationally, her mother - being the legal guardian - filed the complaint."It added: "Dubai's legal system is committed to protecting the rights of all individuals and ensuring impartial judicial proceedings."The FCDO has been approached for comment.
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