London teen jailed in Dubai over underage relationship released after royal pardon
An 18-year-old Londoner jailed for a year in Dubai for having a sexual relationship with a 17-year-old girl has been released and is back in the UK.
Marcus Fakana, now 19, of Tottenham, north London, received a royal pardon from Dubai ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
In June, Marcus pleaded with the royal to grant a humanitarian pardon so he could return home before his sentence was completed.
Detained in Dubai’s chief executive, Radha Stirling, said: ‘His case has attracted significant public attention due to concerns about the criminalization of tourists and disproportionate sentencing.
‘We believe this case highlights the urgent need for expedited legal processes for foreign nationals and safeguards against unnecessary custodial sentences.’
Marcus was with his parents in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from the end of August last year when a ‘holiday romance blossomed’ with another Londoner, who has since turned 18.
After returning to the UK and seeing pictures and chats, the girl’s mother reported the relationship to Dubai police, who then arrested Marcus at his hotel, it is alleged.
In Dubai, if an adult has a sexual relationship with a person under 18, they can be prosecuted for having a sexual relationship with a minor.
Ms Stirling previously said of Marcus’ ordeal: ‘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.’
Conditions at the prison were said to be taking a toll on Marcus, who had limited contact with his family.
Ms Stirling previously warned other parents to be aware of the risks young Britons face in countries with very different legal systems.
She said: ‘Parents need to be aware that teens can be charged in the UAE for behavior that would not be considered criminal at home.
‘Whether that’s a relationship, social media activity, or even drinking alcohol. Marcus is struggling, and this experience will leave a permanent scar. We implore Sheikh Mohammed and the government of Dubai to hear his pleas and let him come home.’
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has been contacted for comment.
Head of Investigations
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