British Teen's Dubai Legal Battle Gains Support

Marcus Fakana, an 18-year-old from Tottenham, faces a potential 20-year prison sentence in Dubai after being accused of having sex with a 17-year-old girl while on holiday. The relationship, which would be legal in the UK, was reported to Dubai authorities by the girl's mother after she discovered messages and photos on her daughter's phone. Fakana was detained for three days without contact with his family and is currently unable to leave the UAE. Although Dubai has recently legalized sex outside marriage for tourists, both parties must be at least 18 years old. Fakana's case highlights the cultural and legal differences between the UAE and the UK, with activists like Radha Stirling of Detained in Dubai arguing for leniency, given the circumstances. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is reportedly assisting Fakana, and his family is seeking intervention from their local MP, David Lammy.